It has, for me, a number of key benefits.

1)It covers all the brighter deep sky objects (including all the Messier objects) but doesn't get bogged down with lots of objects you'll struggle to find.

2)There are details about how to find each object by star hopping and enough information to help you confirm you've found the right thing.

3)It's enthusiastically written by someone who clearly loves his subject

4)In almost every case, the star charts and instructions are prenty to find the objects. I seldom need to use my big expsensive star atlas

Excellent little book, full of great information, 2008-01-31
This is a great introduction to deep sky astronomy.
There are chapters on basic equipment required,how to find your way around the night sky. Then chapters on objects themselves, separated into galaxies, globular clusters, diffuse nebulae, open clusters, double stars, planetary nebulae and supernova remnants.
Each chapter describes what the objects are and is then followed by a number of objects with their location and a description.
At the end of the book is a potted history followed by 8 sky maps and a deep sky listings including Messier objects.

I like the format of the Philip's books, they are just the right size to put in a large pocket.
This book has a number of great images of deep sky objects which are always stunning to look at.
A very practical and useful book.

• Deep Sky Chart (Philip's Astronomy)
• Astrophotography
• Philip's Stargazing with a Telescope
• Guide to the Night Sky: A Guided Tour of the Stars and Constellations (Philip's Astronomy)
• Dark Skies: Darkest Observing Sites in the British Isles (Philip's Astronomy)