In my local astronomy club we are planning a course in basic astronomy with particular emphasis on stars, stellar evolution, determination of distances, luminosities, HR-diagram etc. There will be a series of lectures, and some calculation exersises. We will emphasise the link between astronomy and physics. In addition we would like to include some practical observations. Unfortunately we have highly unstable weather conditions, therefore the extent of the observational program will be limited. Another limitation is the size of our equipment. The largest available aperture is 12.5 inches.
We will, of course, show representative examples of all kinds of DSO's, open/globular clusters, diffuse and planetary nebulae, SNR's and exterior galaxies.
We will also show how the spectral type is related to colour, and if possible, follow some variable stars.
We will use close doubles to demonstrate how small stellar parallaxes are (The separation of Zeta Cancri AB is comparable with the parallax of Alpha Centauri).
We will point the telescope at Kreuger 60 to demonstrate the faintness of a red dwarf compared with a 1'st magnitude star at similar distance.
I would be highly interested in any other ideas for observations/small projects. Any ideas are welcome, but at present we are keeping outside the solar system.
We will, of course, show representative examples of all kinds of DSO's, open/globular clusters, diffuse and planetary nebulae, SNR's and exterior galaxies.
We will also show how the spectral type is related to colour, and if possible, follow some variable stars.
We will use close doubles to demonstrate how small stellar parallaxes are (The separation of Zeta Cancri AB is comparable with the parallax of Alpha Centauri).
We will point the telescope at Kreuger 60 to demonstrate the faintness of a red dwarf compared with a 1'st magnitude star at similar distance.
I would be highly interested in any other ideas for observations/small projects. Any ideas are welcome, but at present we are keeping outside the solar system.
