Michael Swanson's online discussions with literally thousands of NexStar owners made it clear that there was a desperate need for a book such as this - one that provides a complete, detailed guide to buying, using and maintaining NexStar telescopes. Although this book is highly comprehensive, it is suitable for beginners - there is a chapter on "Astronomy Basics" - and experts alike.
Celestron's NexStar telescopes were introduced in 1999, beginning with their first computer controlled "go to" model, a 5-inch. More models appeared in quick succession, and Celestron's new range made it one of the two dominant manufacturers of affordable "go to" telescopes.
Michael Swanson's day job is Technical Manager of Information Systems at the U.S. Navy hospital in Okinawa, Japan. His night jobs have included teaching computer science at the local community college and raising two sons.A chance association via an Internet discussion group lead to an introduction to members of the management team at Celestron, providing a valuable technical resource that made this book possible.