There are two basic methods of recording astronomical images seen through the eyepiece of a telescope. Photography (these days, usually digital imaging with a CCD camera) is one, the other is sketching.

Astronomical sketching and drawing has a long and esteemed history. Many astronomers believe it is still unrivalled for recording and illustrating transient phenomena (such as TLPs) or for taking advantage of the fleeting moments of extreme clarity that result from the turbulent atmosphere through which Earth-based astronomers carry out all their observing.

Unfortunately, astronomical sketching and drawing is seldom taught as such, and is regarded by many amateur astronomers as the province of a talented few. This is not the case – the necessary techniques can be taught, just as portraiture and still-life drawing can be (and is) taught.

This book could become a classic.

2 Responses to “Astronomical Sketching: A Step-by-Step Introduction (Patrick Moore’s Practical Astronomy Series)”

1. Mark G says:

   July 1, 2009 at 12:00 am

   Approaches to different subjects are well set out. Inclusion of some information on digitizing would be useful but internet web-sites are listed that provide some further discussion and instruction about that by the authors. Tips and techniques are spread throughout different chapters. Perhaps it would have been better to have them presented in one section but it’s not a big issue.
2. P. Temple says:

   November 20, 2008 at 12:00 am

   I was already familiar with most of the material in this book. If you have any art training you probably already know the techniques. The strength of this book is the detail given on how to use art techniques to draw astronomical objects! Even if you know little about art it is detailed enough to get you started at a high level of sketching at the eyepiece.