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website design by S. Hayley Steele |
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There are lots of great things about becoming an observation leader:
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Join the elite few who know how to operate a 12-inch Meade LX200 telescope.
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Get an opportunity to point the telescope at the objects you want to see.
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Experience the joy of giving other people their first glimpse of Saturn or Jupiter or M13 (or any number of other celestial bodies)
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For Physics Majors, gain the opportunity to use the telescope to gather data for research projects.
Learning the Ropes
Becoming an observer takes a bit of time, but most people agree it is worth the effort. One of the first things you will want to do if are looking to learn is stop by the Zoo (CF 352) and ask for one of the trained telescope operators. They can tell you all about the program and start you on your way to becoming an astro guide. Starting in Winter 2007, there will be a new course for students who want to learn how to use the telescope: ASTR326.
Astronomical Photography
Western's telescope is not just for seeing pretty sights. Coupled with the SBIG ST-6 CCD camera, it can be used as a powerful research tool. It is the individuals who use the instrument for research who really get to know the most about how the telescope works. They have to in order to find and study stellar objects. If you are interested in research in general or perhaps wondering what to do for your senior project, the telescope scope provides an amazing opportunity to do something fun, exciting, and valuable in the field of astronomy. For more information and ideas for possible projects talk to Dr. Kristen Larson in CF 367.