M. A. (Mary Acworth) Orr
Stars of the southern skies
"Stars of the Southern Skies" by M. A. Orr is a guidebook on astronomy focused on the southern hemisphere, written in the early 20th century. The work is intended for amateur astronomers who are becoming familiar with southern constellations and seek deeper knowledge about the stars they observe. The text likely emphasizes the beauty and variety of the southern sky, detailing prominent stars, constellations, and various astronomical phenomena. At the start of the guide, the author outlines her intentions, stating that the book is designed for readers with minimal experience in astronomy. She expects the audience to have basic knowledge of constellations and possibly a small telescope or simply keen observation skills. The introduction also highlights the unique charm of the southern hemisphere's night sky, mentioning notable constellations such as the Southern Cross and their historical significance, as well as the visual delights that await the observer equipped with even a modest instrument for stargazing.