Customer Reviews

Celestron Sky Maps

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

I purchased this item two weeks ago. My thought was that it seemed like a reasonably priced, perfect addition to the "tools" necessary for a budding amateur backyard astronomy hobby (its advertised contents, construction, and "glow-in-the-dark" planisphere). After closely examining the item for the past ten days, I'm forced to conclude that I was in error, and that you really do get what you pay for. As Celestron is one of the most reputable names in astronomy, I must confess that I assumed that quality would follow in all products that bear their name. I have found that this does not hold true in the case of these sky maps. The major problem with the package is that it is rife with misspellings, letter transpositions, apparent omitted words, and just plain (what we used to call in the old days) "typographical errors." Additionally, when I compare some of the technical information on the maps (i.e., star magnitudes, astronomical distances, etc.)and accompanying descriptions with other authoritative astronomy sources I have in my possession, I also find numerous apparent errors and discrepances. When using a product like this, it is essential that one be able to trust the data and information it contains. Since I'm not able to do this, I must rate this item with one star. When I purchased the item, it was marked down by twenty percent. I note that in less that two weeks since my purchase, the price has been further reduced by another thirteen percent. In this case, don't be fooled (as I was) by an attractive price. AVOID THIS PRODUCT. (I don't have a substitute to recommend at this time.)

I have not seen the current revision of the Celestron Sky Maps, however I have owned a copy (copyrighted 1972) since the early 1980's. At the time I purchased it, I was a beginning amateur astronomer. I found it to be an invaluable tool. I also purchased a dobsonian telescope (no motors, no computers). The charts in Celestron Sky Maps were my primary guide for "star-hopping" to find deep-sky objects. I have found my copy to be accurate and very informative for a beginning astronomer. Again, I haven't seen an updated version, but I would be very surprised if anything has changed other than updating the planetary position chart. It would be a shame if the current copy was rewritten allowing typographical and statistical errors to get past the editing process.
As far as only being useful for northern latitudes, this is true. However, I do not see anywhere on this Amazon listing where there is a claim that it covers all latitudes. In today's global marketplace, concerning a product such as this, that information is practically essential to the buyer.
I would also recommend, "Universe Guide to Stars and Planets" by Wil Tirion. That hardcover book covers all constellations and has sky charts for both the northern and southern hemisphere. The maps and charts are smaller than those in the Celestron Sky Maps, but it has also served me very well as an excellent guide.

This star chart is printed on glossy, heavy card stock. I purchased this to replace the exact one I've had for about 25 years. The binding was finally giving up. My old one has been left in the dew saturated grass overnight and had frost on it. It is still easily usable, just that the pages are coming apart. I highly recommend this chart for beginners and veteran astronomers alike who want to learn the constellations or use the "star hop" method to locate the numerous galaxies, open and globular star clusters, double stars, and nebulae described within.

I bought this under the premise that this item was functional world wide. I actually purchased two as presents only to find out that this item ONLY works in the Northern Hemisphere. Thanks for the heads up Amazon. NOT! Sadly I now have usless star maps - please check your item descriptions!

The Celestron Sky Maps make a good adjuct to he SkyScout. They help you with a broader view of the sky in your area and give you a basis to search for objects more easily with the hand held. They "glow" in the dark to make there use on a dark night easier. They can be used alone and replaced older and less user friendly maps I had.

A more experienced star gazer might enjoy this better. I'm a beginner and it doesn't help out.

the maps are excellent, bought this for my 10 year od daughter and some of the wording inside is a bit beyond her at this time but she can grow into it

Gift recipient said it was great. I can't add any more than that.