Substitute Lab 1

Activity 2 – Observing:  Using a Star Chart

A star chart is a very useful tool for orienting yourself to the night sky.  Use the chart provided, accurate for this month (and our latitude), between 9 and midnight to answer the questions below.  If it is not clear, answer the questions based on the chart and then go outside on the next clear night.  Enjoy!

Note:  Relative brightnesses are indicated by the size of the dots.  Also, you may find it useful to use the reverse side of the chart to answer some of the other questions.

1.     If you look directly overhead (to the zenith), what do you see?

2.     What constellation(s) lie directly overhead?

3.     What asterism(s) lie directly overhead?

4.     What other asterisms can you locate?

5.     What are the brightest stars visible tonight?  Locate and identify them.

6.     What are the three stars of the Summer Triangle?  Locate each.

7.     Find the Big Dipper.  Can you see the double star in the handle?  This was used in the past as a test of visual acuity.

8.     Follow the arc of the handle toward the next bright star.  What star is this?  What is the next bright star past this one, following along the same basic arc?

9.     Follow the pointer stars of the Dipper to the next bright star.  What star is this?  Where is it located (constellation or asterism)?

10.   Is this star especially bright?  That is, is it one of the 5 brightest stars visible tonight?

11.   Continuing on, following the pointer stars past this star, find Cassiopeia.

12.   Describe or draw its shape.

13.   What constellation comes next?

14.   List two interesting features or objects close to or parts of this constellation.

15.   What is the lowest object you can see on your horizon?

16.   Can you find the teapot.  What constellation is this in?

17.   What interesting objects are located close to it?  Can you find them?

18.   What planet(s) is/are visible at this time?

19.   List 2 other interesting events worth viewing this month.

20.   Comment on the general viewing conditions in your region.

Questions

1.  What are the easiest ways to tell the difference between a star and a planet?

2.  Are there any comets viewable right now (with telescope)?

3.  When is the next full Moon?

4.  What is the brightest star visible in the evening sky?

5.  In your conclusion, tell me anything interesting that you learned in this lab.