National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky

by National Geographic Society

Richly illustrated with luminous photographs and informative maps and graphics, this expansive book is the perfect guide for everyone discovering the wonders of the night sky, from those just learning the constellations to dedicated telescope observers.

Combining science, exploration, and storytelling, National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas invites readers to roam the night sky for constellations, planets and moons, eclipses, comets and meteor showers, auroras, and deep-sky treasures including nebulae and galaxies—many visible to the naked eye and all with binoculars or a backyard telescope.

Beginning with basic space science and including a complete set of night sky maps for all four seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, this fascinating book guides the reader toward the most rewarding observations. A unique chapter on astrotourism highlights ancient observatories, dark-sky preserves, and other global destinations for the sky-seeking traveler; a final chapter details current and future space missions and what they might discover.

Richly illustrated with awe-inspiring imagery—including photos from space missions and telescopes, science-based artists’ interpretations, and explanatory graphics—the book also contains 170 maps and charts of planets, moons, and constellations, from Earth’s moon to moons of Saturn. Practical advice throughout helps readers see what they have been reading about, building key observational skills such as “star hopping” from easy-to-find stars to fainter deep-sky objects and focusing on “deep sky treasures:” areas rich in observable phenomena.

Approachable and authoritative, gorgeous and fascinating, National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas will intrigue all who love to gaze up in wonder at the night sky—and find themselves wanting to know more.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Astronomy, Reference, Nature, Travel, Atlases

432 pages, Hardcover

Published October 25, 2022

About the author

The National Geographic Society (NGS), headquartered in Washington, D.C., United States, is one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world.
Founded in 1888, its interests include geography, archaeology, and natural science, the promotion of environmental and historical conservation, and the study of world culture and history. The National Geographic Society's logo is a yellow portrait frame—rectangular in shape—which appears on the margins surrounding the front covers of its magazines and as its television channel logo. Through National Geographic Partners (a joint venture with The Walt Disney Company), the Society operates the magazine, TV channels, a website, worldwide events, and other media operations.

Reviews

[TarHeelReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Approachable and authoritative, gorgeous and fascinating, National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas will intrigue all who love to gaze up in wonder at the night sky—and find themselves wanting to know more.”

I admit all the lights here can make me forget the stars are there, but at the same time, I always love it when I take a breath and look above. I especially love to star gaze at the beach. I’ve seen some shooting stars that way.

I’m so grateful to have this atlas to keep on my shelf as a reference. It’s full of glorious photos and information with so much to learn. I am fortunate to have a few Nat Geo books, and this is my newest favorite.

I received a gifted copy.

Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nat Geo photography choices are incredible, but this book is also extremely readable too. I like how it starts off with "Where are they?" and explains how we know (via parallax, spectroscopy, standard candles, etc) the 3-dimensional shape of the universe. (I prefer this scientific start to this book vs a history lesson on Galileo).

Then "What are they?" as good understandable text on wavelengths, the Electromagnetic spectrum, atomic fingerprints. The HR diagram arrives by page 39, with enough solid understanding to appreciate why this chart gives goosebumps to astronomers.

A thorough discussion of our solar system is in the middle of this gargantuan text (13.5" x 10.5" or 34 cm x 26 cm).

I did not like the version of the four-season sky maps on pg 175-189. Not 'friendly' to use. But then again, this heavyweight book isn't meant to be held sideways outside as you look at the sky.

Every single constellation is reviewed. I would maybe have liked a table of important objects with stats here on each, but I appreciate the readability of what is written telling us how to find certain key items and a little bit of mythology. As a science person, these mythology stories really bother me in a science book.

There is still 100+ pages after the large constellation section, covering a variety of topics.

Solid 4.75*

[MaryAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

National Geographic
Stargazer’s Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky (Chapter Sampler)

On many a night, you can catch me stargazing. I have a favorite app (Sky View) to help me locate planets and constellations I can’t yet identify. So when I had the opportunity to preview National Geographic
Stargazer’s Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky (Chapter Sampler), I was delighted. The guide provides everything one’s geeky little heart could want. The science is approachable and the photographs stellar (haha, see what I did there). In addition to the star charts, sky maps of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and the graphs one might expect, there was story telling and a chapter on astrotourism (yes, that’s a thing). Did you know that there are dark-sky preserves? If you’re more into satellites, or current and future space missions, there is something for you too. The Stargazer’s Atlas invites anyone who has ever wondered about the constellations, planets, eclipses, comets, or other galaxies to indulge their curiosity. If I had a complaint at all, it would be that I wasn’t gifted the entire volume! I think I will add the hard copy to my Christmas list!

Thank you to @NetGalley and @NationalGeographic for the privilege of reading this ARC in exchange for an honest review. It was truly a pleasure.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicely updated, large format coffee table book that would make a great gift for a beginner. The book goes broad, but deep enough to satisfy the average person’s curiosity. It had great infographics and photographs.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Many species migrate by the stars, but dung beetles are the only ones confirmed to navigate by the Milky Way."

[Dotdala_reads (Sam R) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly wish I had enough room in my house for ALL THE BOOKS that should be a staple in every family room, library or on that coveted coffee table.

DISCLAIMER: I'm not the biggest fan of Astronomy or Space as it's not tangible and therefore doesn't keep my interest much...I read this sampler and found myself looking forward to more of the pictures and graphics and learning about what it all meant.

I think a HUGE pro to this book is that it brings all of this 'down to Earth' so to speak. It's not completely filled with concepts and ideas so abstract that your mind must bend to understand them, the reader is provided with so many ways to observe constellations, planets, stars, and much more with JUST THEIR EYEBALLS (and maybe throw some binoculars in).

Although this was a sample- I can imagine that the whole 400+ pages of this Stargazer's Atlas will be a BEAUT! Definitely a good choice for gifting- I'd be thrilled to display this in my home and even start scouring the sky with my husband for these 'night-treasures'.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky is a beautifully, often breathtakingly, photographed and accessibly written guide to the night sky and how to understand what we see when we look up. Due out 25th Oct 2022 from National Geographic, it's 432 pages and will be available in hardcover format.

This is a worthy member of the National Geographic stable of classic coffee table books - absolutely full of beautiful clear photography and packed with accessible information. The early pre-release media package provided for review included a small fraction of the final page content and it's impressive enough that I plan to order a copy for my home library.

The book contains layman accessible language throughout, lots of diagrams and on-page definitions and explanations. The content is arranged thematically and the chapters move from the vastness of space/stars/celestial bodies, through our own Solar System, to an almanac of stargazing events and maps. Each of the specific constellations and points of interest include maps, best viewing times, locations, and background information.

The photography throughout is stunning. This is a highly recommended choice for public and school libraries as well as for scouting/activity groups, and home use. Stunningly gorgeous and well done.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Jessica Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

With amazing pictures and guides, this is a night sky fans dream!

I have always loved looking up at the night sky, especially when I’m somewhere that doesn’t have artificial light to interfere with my viewing. I’ve had some past night sky guides to use to find constellations and others, but nothing I’ve had compares to this amazing book. With tons of pictures of constellations, stars, planets, nebula, and galaxies in stunning quality, I sat for hours looking through the pages. Not only does this book give you seasonal guides for constellation viewing based on where you are at, but it even maps it out for you!

I love the history that the book goes through in each chapter on how people started with sky viewing to get to where we are today with different telescopes. It is so rich in history that I felt like I was back in astronomy class! I love how easy it is to guide yourself to the specific area you are interested in, or you can just sit and flip through the pages to pass the time.

This works great as a personal coffee table book, business waiting room book, or enthusiast’s guide for exploration. Highly recommended if you love books about the wonders of our night sky!

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with all National Geographic books, this coffee table-sized tome is a work of art, with gorgeous photographs and artist's renderings. This book also includes one of my favorite features from the magazine: maps. In this case, they are maps of the night sky for each hemisphere in each season, so it's really easy to go outside and compare your own starry night to the information provided.

The information in this book is well organized, and has tidbits of data that lead down wonderful rabbit holes of exploration. The astrotourism section was one of my favorites, but as a new telescope owner, I really loved being told where to go and how to point my device for the best results.

A young friend of mine leads star parties at his university, and I feel like this is a book he'd love to have in his personal library, but it's by no means only for academics. Rather, it's an easily accessible guide to the night sky, that presents science fact but leaves from for pure, unadulterated wonder. However, it should be noted that it's sheer size makes it impractical as a field guide.

Goes well with: a clear night, an elevated location, and hard cider to toast with.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Combining science, exploration, and storytelling, National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas invites readers to roam the night sky for constellations, planets and moons, eclipses, comets and meteor showers, auroras, and deep-sky treasures including nebulae and galaxies—many visible to the naked eye and all with binoculars or a backyard telescope.”

I can’t say I’m much of a stargazer. I am in awe of the night sky as much as the next person, but, I also REALLY LOVE MY SLEEP.

Having said that, this book may be changing my mind.

First off, THIS BOOK IS STUNNING.

The pictures are everything you’d want in a National Geographic compendium.

The written explanations are also fantastic. They give enough description and detail to satisfy your inner weirdo, but are also clear and concise enough to not make you feel like an idiot.

4.5/5

Thanks to Netgalley and National Geographic for this Advanced Reader’s Chapter.

I can’t wait to see the rest of it.

[Susan]

This atlas is illustrated with collections of maps, photographs and graphics. It encourages readers to search the night skies to find constellations, planets, meteor showers and more with your telescope or binoculars. It begins with space science and includes a full set of night sky maps for all four seasons in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. This fascinating book will guide the reader to the most rewarding observations. I love learning that I could use my binoculars to see the stars that I might not see otherwise. This is a terrific book to read and use.

Note: I only read a sampler of this book but was so impressed with it, I wanted readers to know about it.

Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Lorena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is filled with attractive photographs and informative graphics, maps, and charts as one might expect from National Geographic. The text was also interesting, incorporating easy to understand scientific explanations, history, mythology, and tips for viewing. The chapter on astrotourism seemed particularly interesting to me. I was given only a very brief sample, so it is impossible for me to judge the thoroughness of the content.

This is available as a 10.5-inch by 14-inch hardcover book and would probably be a nice gift for anyone who enjoys stargazing and is curious about science and history.

Thanks to National Geographic for providing me with an unproofed ARC sample through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and National Geographic for the opportunity to read an ARC chapter sampler of this book for an honest review. (Publish Date: October 25, 2022)

The chapter sample I received of National Geographic’s “Stargazer’s Atlas” was nothing short of mind-blowing! The photos are phenomenal, the graphics and maps are exceptionally helpful, and the content is presented in a friendly, easy-to-understand manner. I will most definitely be purchasing this gorgeous book once it’s available! I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in stargazing.

[crafty.jenn.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stargazing is one of most favorite things to do. Since I was a child, I would sit outside and ponder the universe while looking into the night sky.

The photos in this book are amazing! The information is written in such succinct manner making it very relatable and interesting to the general population. I will definitely be purchasing this for my coffee table. Then I can sit on my couch in front of the fireplace pondering the universe.

Thank you to @netgalley and @natgeo for the opportunity to review this Advanced Reader's Chapter.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The National Geographic Society produces beautiful books; I am always sorry that through NetGalley one can only get a sample. I know that I will want to see this title in its entirety when it is published. That said, even this sample is packed with interesting information. The illustrations and photos are plentiful and add to the enjoyment of reading the book.

This title will be liked by stargazers and those interested in astronomy. It is very well done.

Many thanks to NetGalley and National Geographic for this sample. All opinions are my own.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic compilation of photographs, diagrams, and maps of the night sky. This book does an amazing job of combining old and new. Sections on constellations cover some of the myths associated with them as well as the galaxies and largest stars of which they are comprised. Technologies new and prehistoric are covered as well as their astronomic significance. This text will enrich any science section of regional, school, or private libraries and offers plenty of reread value. Stunning pictures make this a possible coffee table book as well.

[Macaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love looking at the stars when I’m out with the dog. And I was thrilled that I was able to get a chapter sampler from NetGalley to review. So many pictures to look at with the history of the names. I’m looking forward to getting my hands on the full book for more information guidance to looking at the stars and planets. And we’re coming up on the warmer part of the year for the northern hemisphere.

Thanks to National Geographic and NetGalley for the chapter sample.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to see that National Geographic put a chapter sampler on their new Stargzer's Atlas. This was very informational with breathtaking and inspiring photos..

My three children ages seven, eight, and eleven enjoyed this sample chapter as much as I did. We will be looking forward to purchasing a copy of this and use it for part of our school work.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and National Geographic for the chapter excerpt of the Stargazer's Atlas. OMG what gorgeous photos. If you love stars and astronomy and stars you need to get this beautiful, Informative book. I can tell I would learn so much reading it and wish it had been around when I was younger and camping under the stars!

[Michaela · Rating 5 out of 5]

-- Full disclosure: I received this book for free from a Goodreads giveaway. ---

This is absolutely beautiful. A great size for the imagery. I'm glad for the info. on stargazing locations. This book is satisfying on a visual and an informational level. As usual, National Geographic did not disappoint.

[Lir Schobert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just got this a few months after moving out into the middle of nowhere. The view of the stars I have is amazing and I want to be able to read the sky, and this atlas has helped immensely in that endeavor, as well as getting me to have a deeper appreciation for the science and knowing we have of these objects in our sky. If you want to know your sky well I highly recommend this book!

[Lynn Coulter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only read a sample chapter from National Geographic Stargazer's Atlas, but it's an excellent, and compelling look into the very skies above our heads. Can't wait to read it all. Highly recommended.

[Hannah Kamerman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick interesting read. I've always been fascinated by stars so it was cool to learn a bit more about them. I liked how they tied it in to some older civilizations that worshipped them and how some stars were named after gods.

[Syntaxx · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breathtakingly gorgeous photography and informative text - everything one has come to expect from a National Geographic publication. This sample chapter did not disappoint and I look forward to perusing the whole book in the future. Recommended for anyone interested in the stars or natural world.

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful. It's a huge volume and has the most beautiful pictures; exactly what one would expect from Nat Geo.

[Matthew Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Won this in a Goodreads giveaway. Spent several hours looking and reading through this - absolutely gorgeous and breathtaking.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire time there has been a giraffe constellation and I didn't know about it. Wild.

[Vanessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

An abundance of information and amazing photos.

[James Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The spectacular graphics greatly enhance understanding of astronomical phenomena.

[Benjamin Honeycutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

My toddler loves picking this up, finding pictures of the stars and planets and having me read random pages to him. We’ve covered a lot of this book and every page is a new adventure for us.