The amateur astronomer

on


Many of the world’s astronomers are amateurs—in the sense that they do not earn their livings from pursuing the study of the science. This does not imply, however, that all such amateurs pursue their interest with unprofessional skills and equipment. Many indeed have made contributions of outstanding importance to astronomy, and some have equipment that some smaller observatories might envy. The amateur’s greatest asset is the opportunity simply to observe the heavens and investigate any object or phenomenon that seems of interest. In contrast, professional astronomers must follow specific programs of scientific research.

Amateur astronomers may be considered to fall into three approximate categories.

The first group includes those who have a general interest in the stars and planets. They can identify the more obvious constellations and follow the special astronomical events that are covered by the press or television. Members of this group are mainly naked-eye observers, although they may also use binoculars or small, tripod-mounted telescopes.

Binoculars (typically 7 by 50 or 10 by 50) with 7- or 10-fold magnification and an objective lens of 2 inches (51 millimeters) in diameter, will reveal many more stars than are visible to the naked eye and will give breathtaking views of the Milky Way. Craters and other surface features of the moon, Jupiter’s four main satellites, star clusters, and comets can also be observed.

Small telescopes, with objective lenses of a 2-inch diameter or more, are the next step from binoculars. Such small telescopes, which are capable of magnifications of up to eight times per inch of objective lens aperture, are not intended to be hand-held. They are usually provided with a light tripod, which provides some stability, and with an alt azimuth mounting, which is simple to use. This type of stand allows the telescope to be rotated about vertical and horizontal axes and appeals to those who may be mystified by sidereal time and setting circles or who simply want to point their telescopes at some interesting object in the sky.

A large number of books, maps, and star atlases are available to help locate objects in the night sky and can be used with alt-AZ instruments. Like many of the star charts that are issued monthly, these give altitudes, azimuths, and indicate the times when objects of interest can be observed.

Comments

Post a Comment