Galaxies are perhaps the most popular of all visual targets that are sought after by visual observers. At present the only way to get up-to-date information, is to query various (often highly technical) speciality books or digging deeply into the Internet. This can be a time consuming and often frustrating task, as the data aren¿t often compatible. This book satisfies the need for a modern, comprehensive review in combining the three major aspects: the physical background on the nature and data of galaxies, the relevant instrumentation and viewing techniques, and finally the targets and their individual appearance in telescopes of various apertures. To illustrate the latter, a comprehensive sample of galaxies, including quasars, groups and clusters of galaxies is presented. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical information guarantees successful observing sessions. The book could become a standard source on galaxy observing for all kinds of amateur observers, from the beginner to the experienced.

This book is a unique work satisfying the need for a modern, comprehensive review of all major aspects of galaxy observation. The book combines the physical background on the nature and data of galaxies, the relevant instrumentation and viewing techniques, and finally the targets and their individual appearance in telescopes of various apertures. This is the only book to specialize on visual observation of galaxies and by expertly addressing the entire spectrum the book will greatly appeal to beginners and experienced stargazers alike. It is clearly structured with outstanding images and graphics, and it contains extensive listing of up-to-date literature, references, data sources and websites. Written by two widely published, internationally acclaimed experts, this book reflects their lifelong passion for deep sky observation.

Galaxies, Cluster of Galaxies, and their Data.- Galaxies, Cluster of Galaxies & their data.- Pairs, Groups, and Clusters of Galaxies.- Catalogs, Data, and Nomenclature.- Technical Aspects on Observing Galaxies.- Accessories and Optical Quantities.- Theory of Visual Observation.- Observing, Recording, & Processing.- What to Observe? - The Objects.- Observing Programs.- Individual Objects.- Groups and Clusters of Galaxies.- Odd Stuff.