Simply THE most comprehensive guide to the Messier Objects ever published Combines detailed historical, astrophysical, statistical and observing information for each object with stunning astrophotos and telescope sketches Reproduces the text of Messier's famous catalog, along with biographies of Messier and his contemporaries Compares modern views with historical sketches from Lord Rosse, John Herschel and other illustrious figures The 110 star clusters, nebulae and galaxies of Messier's famous catalog are among the most popular of all the deep sky objects and are beautiful targets for amateur observers of all abilities.