First Magnitude

A Book of the Bright Sky

“First Magnitude” is an entry-level book for readers with brightly lit skies. Its purpose is to show them that all is not lost, that they can still enjoy personal astronomy and have an appreciation of the heavens no matter where they live. It concentrates on the Sun, Moon, the five bright planets, and on the 23 brightest stars, which are visible from just about anywhere. The book concludes with bright ephemeral phenomena: meteors, comets, and exploding stars. The concept is a platform for introducing the reader to the wonders of the nighttime and daytime skies and serves as an introduction to general astronomy.

James Kaler takes delight in sharing with us his extensive knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for the study of the skies. He further discusses his thoughts on the evolving field of astronomy and expresses his surprise at having an asteroid named after him in honor of his outreach activities.

Interview with James Kaler

Contents:

• Bright Lights
• The Warming Sun
• The Changing Moon
• Wandering Planets
• Sparkling Stars: An Entr'acte
• Bright Star
• The Sky is Falling
• Once and Future Star

Readership: For undergraduates, amateur astronomers, and the interested public.
Key Features:

• Light hearted, easy to read introduction to astronomy
• A personal point of view from a professional astronomer into the wonders of the sky
• A guide to going out and looking for one's self no matter what are the observing conditions