Night Sky Observations ProjectFor this assignment, you will choose from the following options:Option 1: Observations With Sky Chart or WheelOption 2: Observations With Computer ProgramOption 3: Alternative AssignmentRead the instructions in Night Sky Observations and select 1 option to complete the assignmentNight Sky Observations
Background
Astronomy involves the making and recording of observations
of objects and phenomena visible in the night sky. As a course-long project,
you are asked to perform night viewing of celestial objects at least once a
week for the duration of the workshop and to maintain a log of your
observations. Observations may be done individually or with others in the
class, but the logs must be prepared by each individual student.
To complete this assignment, choose 1 of the following
methods:
·
Observations With Sky Chart or
Wheel
o
Obtain a star chart or star wheel. There are websites where you can download charts representing the
night sky on a particular date. Additionally,
star charts are available for purchase at many book
stores. A star chart will help you
locate various constellations. Information regarding the position and best
times for viewing planets is also available on the Internet.
·
Observations With Computer
Program
o
Downloadand use Stellarium from the Internet to complete your
observations. It can be download by clicking here.
·
Alternative Assignment
o
Visit a planetarium or
observatory in your area.
o
Write a 700- to 1,050-word report
describing your experience:
·
The name of the facility and its association.
·
The type of equipment. Describe the types of telescopes used and
discuss their principles of operaration.
·
List celestial objects observed during your visit. Research their location and distance from Earth.
·
Other things learned about
astronomy
·
You can also include the description of any
planetarium
show or videos you watched during your visit.
Observation Instructions
If you have a pair of binoculars or a camera that can be
used at night, feel free to use them to enhance or record your experience.
At a minimum, you should try to note the following:
1. The
Moon and its phase
Try
to observe at least 3 lunar features such as named craters, lunar maria,
phase, and mountainous areas (see Section 7.2 of the text).
Determine the time of moonrise and, if possible, the
distance between Earth and the Moon on the particular date of viewing1. The
North Star (Polaris): along with the associated constellations of Ursa Minor and
Ursa Major (also known as the Little Dipper and the Big Dipper).
2. See
Figure 2.11(a) in the text. Note the position of the 2 constellations at 2
separate times and draw a chart as shown in Figure 2.11.
3. Identify
at least 4 other constellations.
Note
if they are in the Zodiac.
Note
the time, position (direction), and approximate elevation above the
horizon.
4. Determine
whether the Milky Way is visible and, if so, its orientation (see Ch. 2).
5. Identify
and observe at least 2 planets and describe their movement over your weeks of
observation.
6. Note
any other observed celestial objects or phenomena, such as meteor showers,
comets, and satellites. Perform an online search for the calendar of such
phenomena and discuss whether your observations are in agreement with expected
schedule.
7. Record
meteorological conditions, such as cloud cover, lightning, and light pollution.
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