Best Astronomy Books

This comprehensive guide to backyard astronomy is a must-have for both beginners and experts. Packed with decades of stargazing experience, the authors offer practical advice on what equipment to buy (and avoid), observing techniques, and how to locate the most interesting celestial objects. Each chapter is accompanied by breathtaking astrophotography, making it easy to follow along. Topics covered include dealing with light pollution, taking impressive color photographs of galaxies and nebulas, and more. Written in clear, jargon-free language, this guide is divided into three parts: Equipment for Backyard Astronomy, Observing the Celestial Panorama, and Astrophotography.

This stargazing guide has sold over 600,000 copies and is the best general interest introduction to astronomy. The charts are perfect for backyard astronomers using a small telescope or binoculars, and the equipment and photography sections have been updated in the fourth edition. It includes star charts for use in the southern hemisphere, and the tables of future solar and lunar eclipses, planetary conjunctions and planet locations have been updated through 2025.

Explore the universe and the evolution of our existence in this iconic science book. Written with poetic prose, discover the vastness of space and the incredible journey of life on Earth. With stunning illustrations and contributions from astrophysicists, this must-read covers topics such as the origin of life, the human brain, technology advancements, and the forces that shaped modern science. Let Cosmos take you on a thrilling journey through time and space.

Discover the wonders of the night sky with this popular astronomy book, now with over 150,000 copies sold. Featuring an object-by-object format, it illustrates how celestial wonders look through a small telescope, and provides updated information on star names and astronomical data. With dedicated chapters for both hemispheres, it's the perfect guide for amateur astronomers everywhere.

Explore the mysteries of the universe with this acclaimed masterpiece by a celebrated physicist. From the origins of time to the boundaries of the universe, delve into the secrets of space and time. Discover the great theories of the cosmos from Newton to Einstein, and explore the wonders of the Big Bang, black holes, and more. Written in clear and concise language, this book offers a fascinating and accessible introduction to the universe and its wonders. This new edition includes exciting updates from the author, along with a companion app, Stephen Hawking's Pocket Universe.

Discover the cosmos with Astronomy - a beginner's guide that introduces readers to the beauty of the night sky. This classic guide has been updated to include the latest discoveries and more than 100 new graphics and photos. With simple explanations free of complex math, an interactive format, and online resources, readers can quickly and easily explore the wonders of the universe.

Explore the mind-boggling world of space travel and weightlessness with an entertaining twist. This book delves into the oddities of life in space and the unique challenges that come with it, from crash tests for new space capsules to space shuttle training toilets. Join the author as she takes you on a journey through the science of space and everyday life on our planet.

Explore the wonders of space with everyone's favorite Cat in the Hat in this nonfiction book! Learn about the planets, constellations, and astronauts in our solar system. Perfect for young readers who love learning and science, this book is part of the nonfiction series, The Cat in the Hat's Learning Library, which introduces important basic concepts to beginning readers. Don't miss out on this out-of-this-world adventure!

This renowned physicist left a final gift for us all: a book compiling his personal answers to the big questions in life. From climate change to the future of AI, he provides his unique perspective on our biggest challenges as a species. Leading thinkers introduce each section, adding their own insights to the late author's legacy.

Explore the destruction of the cosmos in The End of Everything. Astrophysicist Katie Mack uses cutting-edge technology and theory to describe the different futures that could result from our incomplete understanding of reality. Will our universe collapse, rip apart, or succumb to an expanding bubble of doom? This fascinating and witty story of cosmic escapism shares the excitement of a leading astrophysicist while showing that we may not be able to change how it all ends, but we can begin to understand it.