Specifications
AUTOSTAR CCD PHOTOMETRY 99
APPENDIX I
Suggested Projects
Introduction
There are many types of astronomical photoelectric photometry
projects. Some of the projects an amateur might consider are Lunar
photometry, solar photometry, planetary photometry, planetary
satellite occultation photometry, asteroid photometry, comet
photometry, deep sky photometry (including Novae, Supernovae,
and galactic photometry), and several varieties of stellar
photometry.
Lunar Photometry
Lunar photometry is an area in which few astronomers are
performing photometric observations. Lunar photometry of
transient events such as the brightening or fading of certain areas
and discolorations of the crater floors can be done.
Perhaps one of the most interesting types of Lunar photometry is
the measurement of lunar occultations of stars. The darkened
limb of the moon provides a “knife edge”, rapidly cutting off the
star light. Much can be learned from the data obtained. High–speed
photometry is used and data points may be logged into a computer
at 1-millisecond intervals. The resulting light curve and diffraction
pattern of the light from the star as it is sliced by the darkened edge
of the moon can reveal unseen multiple stars (such as previously
undetected spectroscopic binaries) and information about their
configurations. This is a very exciting project because you only get
one chance and everything must be just right. These measurements
can be made with either a waxing or waning moon. Measurements
can be made from stars disappearing or re–appearing on the
darkened Lunar limb. Unless you have an exceptionally fine
telescope setup and very accurate clock drive, projects involving
the disappearance of a star are the best ones to tackle.