PATTERNS IN THE SKY: The Story of the Constellations

by W. Maxwell Reed ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 5, 1951

An attractive combination of legend and first steps in accurate star gazing with sky maps to aid in observation. With an introductory chapter about the myths of Greece and Rome and the nomenclature of constellations, the author plunges into an explanation of the difficult concepts of astronomical computations which involve ""imaginary lines"" such as the zodiac, and the celestial equator. The bulk of the text, however, treats the major constellations in turn, describing the formations and telling the stories which myth and legend have built around them. Two star charts are included for each constellation -- one with a dotted outline of the mythical character for which the constellation was named, and the other a white-on-black representation of how the stars look to us in the sky. An ideal companion for summer evenings, this is primarily a lure to come outdoors and see for yourself. The charts are by D.F. Levett Bradley.

Pub Date: Sept. 5, 1951

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Morrow

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1951

Categories: NONFICTION