Nick James Knihy

Since comet Shoemaker-Levy collided with the planet Jupiter with stupendous force in 1994 there has been an upsurge of amateur interest in comets. Most comets are first discovered by amateur astronomers because there are so many amateurs looking for them, and techniques and instruments have improved dramatically in the past few years.After a short but detailed introduction to the comets themselves Nick James and Gerald North describe comet hunting, photographing and imaging comets, and digital image processing. The use of computers for orbital calculations and even helping to discover new comets is given a full chapter, as are advanced techniques including comet photometry and spectroscopy.This comprehensive book has an accompanying CD-ROM and is at once a "primer" for comet hunters and a reference text for more advanced amateur astronomers.

Amidst an alien invasion from the Authority of Haven, two brothers, Cassius and Jesse, emerge as pivotal figures in Earth's defense. As the resistance faces chaos from a powerful new weapon, shifting alliances and treachery complicate their struggle. The fate of humanity rests on Cassius, who must confront the possibility of making a profound sacrifice to save the planet. This gripping tale explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of brotherhood in the face of overwhelming odds.

The plot revolves around 15-year-old Jesse, who inadvertently triggers chaos after smuggling a mysterious red Pearl onto the Academy. This fragment of space debris holds the key to energy for a dying Earth, leading to unforeseen consequences. As Jesse navigates the fallout of his actions, the story explores themes of responsibility and the impact of individual choices on a larger scale.

In 2095 when a fifteen-year-old slacker discovers that he has the power to control Pearls, fragments of space debris that are a dying Earth's most important energy source, government forces work to capture him.

In a world filled with betrayal and scandal, the protagonist faces a devastating crisis that forces him to rebuild his life from the ground up. As he navigates the aftermath of shocking revelations, he must confront his inner demons and the harsh realities of his circumstances. The story explores themes of resilience and the struggle for redemption in the face of overwhelming odds.

This guide provides amateur astronomers with essential techniques for observing and tracking variable stars and other celestial objects that exhibit changes in brightness. It offers practical tips and insights to enhance observational skills, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced stargazers interested in exploring the dynamic nature of the universe.