The "Dummies" series of books have been a staple for people wanting to learn something new and in a way that isn't too technical. The Dummies company has always prided themselves on taking complex subjects and making them easy to understand.

It is available on amazon.com right here: Astronomy for Dummies

There are two very different aspects to astronomy. The first aspect is the technical and science part of it. This is all about the Universe, the things in it and how it all works. The second aspect of astronomy is the hands-on aspect. This is the area of how to observe the various things in the night sky including constellations, the moon, stars and more. The Astronomy for Dummies book covers both of these aspects.

From the Back Cover

The fun and easy way to explore the night sky

Do you know the difference between a red giant and a white dwarf? From asteroids to black holes, this easy-to-understand guide takes you on a grand tour of the universe. Featuring updated star maps, charts, and an insert with gorgeous full-color photographs, Astronomy For Dummies provides an easy-to-follow introduction to the night sky.

• See the light - get pointers on observing sky objects with and without optics, selecting binoculars and telescopes, and positioning yourself for optimal viewing
• Won't you be my neighbor? - take a tour of the collection of planets, moons, and planetary debris that orbits the Sun
• Meet some old sols - find the best and brightest of the sky objects and enhance your connection to the universe by getting to know the life cycle of stars
• Ponder this - explore thought-provoking concepts like the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the nature of dark matter and antimatter

Open the book and find:

• The difference between planets and stars
• Names of stars and constellations
• Terrific tools for observing the skies
• A tour of the solar system
• The scoop on the Big Bang theory and the evolution of the universe
• Full-color photos of spiral galaxies, nebulae, asteroids, and planets
• The 4-1-1 on black holes and quasars
• Astronomy clubs, websites, apps, and more

Learn to:

• Enjoy skywatching in your backyard
• Identify planets and stars
• Explore our solar system, the Milky Way, and beyond
• Understand the Big Bang, quasars, antimatter, and more

About the Author

Stephen P. Maran, PhD, is the retired Assistant Director of Space Sciences for Information and Outreach at the NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and theformer Press Officerr of the American Astronomical Society.

It is available on amazon.com right here: Astronomy for Dummies

If you are more interested in taking the binoculars or telescope out under a starry sky the dummies company has a book specifically for star gazing:

Stargazing For Dummies

Reach for the stars

Stargazing is the practice of observing the night sky and its contents - from constellations through to planets and galaxies. Stars and other night sky objects can be seen with the naked eye, or seen in greater numbers and in more detail with binoculars or a telescope.

Stargazing For Dummies offers you the chance to explore the night sky, providing a detailed guide to the main constellations and also offering advice on viewing other night sky objects such as planets and nebulae. It's a great introduction to a fun new hobby, and even provides a fun way to get the kids outside while doing something educational!

• Gives you an introduction to looking at the sky with binoculars or a telescope
• Offers advice on photographing the night sky
• Without needing to get your head around mind-bending theories, you can take part in some practical physics

If you're looking for easy-to-follow guidance on getting to know the night sky, Stargazing For Dummies has you covered.

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