Lab List
1. Statistics and the Number of Galaxies in the Universe
Internet based (no outdoors observing required)
In this lab you will experiment with statistical uncertainties and estimate the number of galaxies in the Universe using the most sensitive images of the sky ever taken.
2. Optics Lab
Not ready yet.
In this lab you will learn about basic optics (how to make a telescope) and about light.
naked eye, binocular, and telescopic observations.
In this lab you will learn about constellations and celestial coordinates, while learning how to use a telescope.
4. Lunar Observations and Mountain Heights
naked eye, binocular and telescopic observations; detailed lunar observations best done during first quarter. Some web preparation is needed (be sure to read through the lab before starting to be prepared).
In this lab you will observe the moon in detail through binoculars and telescope. You will measure the height of mountains on the surface of the moon.
5. Lunar History and the Crater Record
(Requires Lab. 4)
telescopic observations (portable telescopes)
In this lab you will observe the craters on the moon to determine the cratering history of the moon.
some telescopic observations and Internet based project to measure Jupiter's Mass
In this lab you will observe the Gallilean satellites of Jupiter and determine the mass of Jupiter by studying the orbits of its moons.
7. Galactic Structure and Starcounts
binocular observations plus internet based data analysis
In this lab you will count stars using binocular observations of various regions of the sky and attempt to derive a model for the galaxy. You will also learn about the galactic coordinate system and use it to draw conclusions about the properties of planetary nebulae, open and globular clusters, and dust.
8. The Hertzprung-Russell Diagram and the Properties of Stars
binocular/naked eye observations plus internet based data analysis.
In this lab you will use the properties of stars to measure the distance to the Hyades cluster of stars and to estimate its age.
9. Globular Clusters and the Age of the Galaxy (Requires Lab No. 7)
internet based data analysis.
telescopic observations of galactic nebulae
In this lab you will observe several galactic nebulae of differing physical origin.
12. CCD Observations
Not available yet.
In this lab you will learn how to run the telescope and make digital observation.
Internet based lab.
In this lab you will examine the images of nearby galaxies and devise your own classification system.
Internet based lab.
In this lab you will measure the rate of expansion of the Universe and the age of the Universe.