Night Sky Observations

SCI/151 Version 6

University of Phoenix Material

Night Sky Observations
Background
Astronomy involves the making and recording of observations of objects and phenomena visible in the
night sky. As a course-long project, you are asked to perform night viewing of celestial objects at least
once a week for the duration of the workshop and to maintain a log of your observations. Observations
may be done individually or with others in the class, but the logs must be prepared by each individual
To complete this assignment, choose one of the following methods:

Observations With Sky Chart or Wheel

Obtain a star chart or star wheel. There are websites where you can download charts
representing the night sky on a particular date. Additionally, star charts are available for purchase
at many book stores. A star chart will help you locate various constellations. Information regarding
the position and best times for viewing planets is also available on the Internet.

Observations With Computer Program

Download and use Stellarium from the Internet to complete your observations. It can be
download by clicking here.

Alternative Assignment

Visit a planetarium or observatory in your area.

Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word report describing your experience:

The name of the facility and its association

The type of equipment
Showings (celestial objects observed)
Other things learned about astronomy
You can also include any planetarium show or videos you watched during your visit.

Observation Instructions
If you have a pair of binoculars or a camera that can be used at night, feel free to use them to enhance or
record your experience.
At a minimum, you should try to note the following:
1. The Moon and its phase
a. Try to observe at least three lunar features such as named craters, lunar maria, phase, and
mountainous areas (see Section 7.2 of the text).
b. Determine the time of moonrise and, if possible, the distance between Earth and the Moon on the
particular date of viewing.
2. The North Star (Polaris): the associated constellations of Ursa Minor and Ursa Major (also known as
the Little Dipper and the Big Dipper).
3. See Figure 2.11(a) in text. Note the position of the two constellations at two separate times and draw

Copyright 2015, 2013 by University of Phoenix. All rights reserved.

Night Sky Observations

SCI/151 Version 6
a chart as shown in Figure 2.11.
4. Identify at least four other constellations.
a. Note if they are in the Zodiac.
b. Note the time, position (direction), and approximate elevation above the horizon.
5. Determine whether the Milky Way is visible and, if so, its orientation (see Ch. 2).
6. Identify and observe at least two planets and describe their movement over your weeks of
observation.
7. Note any other observed celestial objects or phenomena, such as meteor showers, comets, and
satellites.
8. Record meteorological conditions, such as cloud cover, lightning, and light pollution.

Assignment Instructions
Create a chart or table for your observations each week. You can use the one below or create your own
(the contents in left column came from the information above).
Write a 300- to 500-word summary of your findings.
Submit the table and summary to your facilitator.
Observed item

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

The Moon and

its phases
North Star

Position of two
constellations
Identify at least
four other
constellations.
Milky Way

Planet
movement
Celestial
objects or
phenomena
Meteorological
conditions

Copyright 2015, 2013 by University of Phoenix. All rights reserved.

Week 5

Night Sky Observations

SCI/151 Version 6
Summary of findings (300500 words):

Copyright 2015, 2013 by University of Phoenix. All rights reserved.