The Astronomer's Computer Companion, written by a professional and an avid amateur astronomer, is a complete introduction to contemporary astronomy and a guide to the best software, web sites, and other computer resources for astronomers. Whether you have only a passing interest in astronomy or you spend every evening on a mountain top, you'll find something exciting in The Astronomer's Computer Companion.

You'll learn:

• What software to use to track the movement of planets, asteroids, satellites, and other celestial bodies-even how to keep a log of your sightings, generate star charts, calculate exposures for astronomical photographs, and more
• How to use the Internet to access high-powered remote telescopes for personal research projects
• Where on the Internet to find up-to-the-minute astronomy news or view the latest images
• How to use the Internet to share discoveries with astronomers around the world through newsgroups and chat rooms
• Where on the Internet to find answers to your astronomy questions quickly

About the CD-ROM:

The Astronomer's Computer Companion CD-ROM includes hundreds of megabytes of software (over 100 freeware, shareware, and demo programs)-saving you hours and hours of downloading time and bringing everything together in one place. In addition, the authors include dozens of fascinating astronomical images and animations, as well as a searchable electronic version of the book (in Adobe's PDF format) that you can read as you click the hyperlinks to browse the Web sites referenced throughout the book.

Jeff Foust has a Ph.D. in planetary sciences from MIT. He is a member of the board of directors of the Boston chapter of the National Space Society and editor of SpaceViews.

Ron LaFon is a freelance writer, editor, and a computer graphics and electronic publishing specialist from Sonoma, California. He has been an avid amateur astronomer since age seven.