Observing 2 Lab

Lab 7 - Observing II:  The Spring Sky

Despite the rain, the late winter and early spring skies present some good opportunities for viewing.  Heat haze is low, though precipitation can be a problem for telescopes.  In this lab, you will locate several gems of the spring sky, drawing and identifying what you see.  So get out there and dig the night sky!

Note:  On sky maps, relative brightnesses are indicated by the size of the dots.  Also, you may find it useful to use the reverse side of the chart (skymaps.com) to answer some of the other questions.

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

2.     What constellation can you find?

3.     What asterism(s) can you find

4.     What are the brightest stars visible tonight?  Locate them.

5.     Can you see and of the stars of the Summer Triangle?  What are they?

6.     Find the Big Dipper.  Can you see the double star in the handle?  Consider yourself lucky, if so.

7.     Follow the arc of the handle toward the next bright star.  What star is this?

8.     Follow the pointer stars of the Dipper to the next bright star, Polaris.  Is this star especially bright?  That is, is it one of the 5 brightest stars visible tonight?

9.     Continuing on, locate Cassiopeia and the Northern Cross.

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

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

12.  Can you detect any color in stars or planets?  Comment.

13.  What objects lie along the ecliptic?

14.  If your skies are exceptionally clear, locate the broad band of stars comprising our own Milky Way galaxy.  Consider yourself lucky if you can find it.

15.  Can you find any Messier objects?  What are Messier objects?

16.  List other interesting events worth viewing this month.

17.  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 object you see tonight (other than the Moon)?