Beginning Observing

Is it best to concentrate on one constellation and really get to know it and spend a month or so observing all that is within that constellation be that variables, doubles, etc and then and only then to move on to another constellation?

Seems to me doing it this way one would develop an intimacy with the objects within it.

thanks
john

I think there are several approaches. But yes, you in general have the right idea.

There is a book called "Star Hopping for Backyard Astronomers" Alan MacRoberts. In it the author takes you for tours through a constellation. (He also describes star hopping in general.) I would suggest you make up some "Star Hops" like he has in his book.

The idea is to learn what one constellation has to offer, and then move on to the next constellation. But do not abandon your first one. For instance, Orion is a good one to try right now. Look for its highlights. Then next month do it again quickly in Orion, and study in depth a second constellation. The next month quickly review your Orion "oldies" and the objects you met the second month, and then spend some time studying a third constellation. By the fourth month, Orion has slipped from center stage, but review your second and third constellations quickly before going on to study your fourth. ETC...

Next year, when Orion comes around again, go back to your old friends and try to find them.

By the way--when I say "constellation" I probably mean "area of the sky," which may include several constellations.

One of the methods I have is to pick a page in Sky Atlas 2000, and find all the Messier Objects in it. Or All the Galaxies over twelfth magnitude.

Alex