I just bought Sky Atlas 2000.0 Deluxe from amazon.com and wanted to write a review to help other buyers in making the right decision. I couldn't decide between the Spiral bound edition($49.95) or the Deluxe (paperback) edition ($39.95). Both of these sound like one and the same version (except for the names that amazon.com gives them), and I know that Sky Publishing/Cambridge University Press sells only one Deluxe non-laminated version. But amazon.com sells these as two different items at two different prices. Still confused, but rather confident, I bought the Deluxe version ($39.95), and it IS the Deluxe version that is sold elsewhere. In other words, DON'T BUY THE $50 VERSION until you contact amazon.com to see if there is a difference between the two! As far as I know, (and I could be wrong) it is the exact same as the paperback (Deluxe) version, so don't waste your money needlessly! It is color coded with 8.2mm per degree, a maroon colored cover, and spiral-bound foldout charts. I am absolutely thrilled with it, I am amazed at its quality, it's sure to be an invaluable guide for years to come. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! One more note, if you are considering the deluxe laminated version, you should think twice, because you could buy the regular deluxe version and the laminated desk version for the same price (apx $120) as the laminated deluxe! Another option (this is what I've done) is to buy a piece of clear plexigass to cover your charts when outside. This will keep the dew off the front of your charts. And when observing, flip the dew resistant cover over the plexiglass to keep the other charts dry. This is a cheap way of protecting your charts from dew without having them laminated. 6/12/00
