This Easy Field Guide is your map for a personal stargazing tour through the Southwestern night sky. The sky charts included are accurate for observers in Arizona, New Mexico, Southern California, and Texas. In fact, even though we produced three separate titles about the night sky (Arizona, New Mexico, and Southwest), the text and charts are identical in each one. With this guide you can learn to recognize, by name and position, all the prominent stars and constellations.
Only the brightest celestial objects are included to ensure your immediate success. No special equipment is required, but binoculars may be used to obtain a better view of the several star clusters and nebulae shown on the charts.
Throughout this guide you will find, in italics, Southwestern native skylore related to the visible stars and constellations. The written record of this vanishing mythology is sparse and often disputed. Still, skylore provides fascinating insights into regional culture and will enhance your overall experience of the Southwestern night sky.
