Bu Astronomy Department - As 10x Courses Night Lab Activity Sheet printable pdf download

Bu Astronomy Department - As 10x Courses Night Lab Activity Sheet

BU Astronomy Department – AS 10X courses

Night Lab 2 – What’s the name of that star?

The objectives for this Night Lab are:

To learn how to find constellations and other objects in the sky using a star chart

To observe some celestial objects through telescopes

What is a star chart?

A star chart is a map of the night sky. There is no one set format for a star chart, but they all generally

show the locations of the brightest stars and the constellations. Sometimes they also show other “deep

sky” objects such as nebulae and galaxies, objects that are typically only seen through telescopes.

You can download star charts from the web (e.g., ). The important thing is to find a

star chart that is appropriate for the latitude and time when you will be observing.

A nice alternative to a monthly star chart is a planisphere. One planisphere will provide you a star chart

throughout the year. These are inexpensive and can be adjusted for the date and time you will be

observing.

A third alternative is to download an app directly to your smart phone or tablet.

What to bring to Night Lab 2

A printout of this document

The star chart. If you’re lucky, one is posted on your class website. If not, go to

and print the “Northern Edition” star chart for THIS MONTH.

Two pens or pencils

A small flashlight

Lots of warm clothes, gloves, hats, etc. Pretend you’re going to Antarctica.

Now, please answer the following questions. Make sure to ask plenty of questions about what you’re

doing.

Bu Astronomy Department - As 10x Courses Night Lab Activity Sheet