STARS AND PLANETS by Joachim Ekrutt...

STARS AND PLANETS by Joachim Ekrutt (Barron’s: $11.95, illustrated). In addition to the usual color pictures of nebulae and galaxies, this handsome guide offers three sets of charts illustrating the positions of the constellations at different latitudes. The easy-to-follow instructions explain how to adjust the charts to various times of night: Anyone who can figure out which way is north should be able to use them. Additional tables list upcoming celestial events (solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, the positions of the planets) through the year 2000. An excellent book for the novice astronomer or anyone planning a trip to the desert or mountains--where the stars can be seen.