Sky Observation Log For PHSC 111 DLA Introduction To Astrono

Sky Observation Logcourse Phsc 111 Dla Introduction To Astronomyna

Sky Observation Logcourse Phsc 111 Dla Introduction To Astronomyna

Identify the core assignment task: students are required to perform weekly sky observations, record their observations on a provided Sky Observation Log (SOL), and submit these logs by specified due dates. Observations can be made with the naked eye, binoculars, telescopes, or through the Bradford robotic telescope. The observations should include details such as date, time, weather conditions, location, equipment used, Sky Object observed, and comments. Students are expected to observe at least once per week, record their findings, and submit completed logs for review.

Paper For Above instruction

The core objective of this assignment is to engage students in systematic sky observation over the course of the semester, fostering direct experiential learning about celestial objects, their movements, and observational conditions. This activity enhances understanding of astronomy through practical engagement, requiring students to observe the night sky weekly and document their findings in a detailed log.

The assignment involves multiple components. First, students must perform at least one observation per week, utilizing either their own equipment such as naked eyes, binoculars, or telescopes, or employing the Bradford Robotic Telescope (BRT). The use of the BRT provides an opportunity for students to access professional-grade telescopic images and data, supplementing personal observations. Whether students choose personal or remote observations, meticulous record-keeping is emphasized, including date, time, weather conditions, location, equipment used, celestial objects observed, and comments noting visibility, clarity, and any particular phenomena.

The observational data must be entered into a Sky Observation Log (SOL), available in various formats (PDF, Word, Excel), which enables students to type or handwrite their observations. The logs must be submitted twice during the semester: the first by October 21 and the final by December 9. These submission deadlines are strictly enforced and are intended to document the students’ observational progress across seasons and conditions.

Throughout the semester, students are encouraged to diversify their observational targets. They can select specific objects such as stars, planets, or the Moon, and observe them over multiple weeks to witness changes, or they can observe different objects weekly to broaden their understanding of celestial phenomena. For example, observing the phases of the Moon, tracking the motion of planets across the sky, or noting the visibility of certain stars during different seasons can provide valuable insights.

The instructional guidelines specify that observational conditions such as weather greatly influence visibility. Cloudy or rainy conditions, as documented in the logs, often impede star observation, which underscores the importance of selecting clear nights for effective data collection. The use of sky maps and astronomical websites to identify celestial objects and their positions is recommended, aiding students in planning their observations effectively. These maps utilize symbols to represent objects, which should be familiarized with for accurate identification.

Students interested in using the Bradford robotic telescope must register beforehand and can select objects to observe from a provided list. The remote telescope provides additional parameters such as filters and exposure times, allowing for enhanced data collection. Entries from the BRT observations must be properly recorded in the SOL, including the subject object, telescope settings, and any comments on the observation quality or conditions.

In summary, this assignment aims to cultivate observational skills and astronomical knowledge by requiring students to engage actively with the night sky, maintain detailed records, and reflect on their observations. The structured logging and submission schedule ensure consistency and allow for the assessment of observational development. This practical experience is foundational in understanding astronomy, complementing theoretical coursework with real-world observation.

References

• Barentine, J. C. (2016). The night sky and how to see it: A practical guide to astronomy. Springer.
• Brunner, R. (2019). Introduction to astronomical observations: Techniques and protocols. Cambridge University Press.
• Hockey, T. A., et al. (2009). Skywatching: Astronomy through binoculars and telescopes. Firefly Books.
• Seitzer, P. (2010). Observing the universe: A beginner's guide. Springer.
• Sinnott, R. W., et al. (2013). Astronomy: A self-teaching guide. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Rogers, T. (2004). Exploring the cosmos with binoculars and telescopes. Cambridge University Press.
• Levitan, D. (2014). Cosmology: A beginner's guide. Wiley.
• Reichhardt, T. (2017). Using remote telescopes for astronomical research. Journal of Astronomy Education, 23(2), 45-52.
• International Astronomical Union. (2015). Standards for celestial object identification and notation. IAU Publications.
• NASA. (2020). Night sky observations and sky mapping resources. https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/