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Saturday, January 1, 2022

SKY GUIDE SOUTH AFRICA 2022: REVIEW

This handbook is an invaluable guide for anyone with an interest in the night skies of southern Africa, from the beginner through to the professional. (Review by Keith Millar) 

One of the grandest sights we can ever see is the night skies on a clear evening. Billions of pinpricks of light creating a spectacle of wonder and awe. 

How often do we gaze up and wish we understood more of these marvels of our world? 

Well, in order to do that get your hands on this excellent Sky Guide For South Africa 2022. 

Produced by the Astronomical Society of Southern Africa, this handbook is an invaluable guide for anyone with an interest in the night skies of southern Africa, from the beginner through to the professional. 

The Astronomical Society of Southern Africa celebrates its centenary in 2022. The handbook, which is prepared by a team of specialists in their fields, is now in its 77th year of publication. And for 2022 it has been redesigned, making it even more accessible to all readers. It is mind-boggling the extent of the experience and knowledge that has been condescended into its covers over the years. 

Everything one needs to know to increase your knowledge and learn more about the night skies is included in this practical resource. 

It covers the upcoming year’s planetary movements, predicted eclipses, meteor showers and any other events and facets of the night sky that change annually.

Star charts plot the evening sky for each season, facilitating identification of stars and constellations.

The guide also offers a wealth of information on the Sun, Moon, planets, comets, meteors, and bright stars with photos, diagrams, charts, and images.

There is also practical information provided on the likes of binoculars and telescopes, basic observing skills, suggestions of where to go star-gazing, as well as an overview of the excellent online resources available to the astronomy enthusiast.

In fact, everything you need to know to improve your knowledge, or to start a new hobby is available in some form in this book.

The Sky Guide South Africa 2022 is truly the essential handbook for all night sky enthusiasts – from beginners to experts. Its compact size makes it a perfect for any handbag or backpack and taken with you on all expeditions.

The Sky Guide South Africa 2022 is published jointly by Struik Nature and the Astronomical Society of South Africa. The ISBN is 9781775847632. Recommended Retail Price is R15.00. – Keith Millar