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ASTR 0014 - Astrophotography and Imaging

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/astr-0014/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Prerequisite: Completion with grade of "C" or better or concurrent enrollment in ASTR 2, 5, or 10 Advisory: Completion of ENGL N with grade of "C" or better Hours: 54 laboratory Description: Basic principles and practices of astrophotography and image processing. Astronomical observations and data collection associated with the use of telescopes, binoculars, computers, cameras, and other related equipment. Development of observational techniques and data analysis procedures for the study of the outdoor sky with related indoor experiments and studies. Particular emphasis placed on quantitative and qualitative analysis of a variety of astronomical data collected with cameras. NOTE: About 5 nights of activities will be required. (CSU, UC) Units 1 Lecture-Discussion Laboratory 54 By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Explain celestial navigation, evaluating the significance of important astronomical phenomena. Operate a variety of optical systems, demonstrating proficiency in their use. Use various imaging systems to produce high quality image data products, demonstrating overall mastery of image reduction skills. Course Content Outline I. Measuring Devices, Significant Figures, Error, and Scientific Notation II. Small Telescopes and Binoculars III. Optical Bench and Optical Parameters IV. Photography and Star Trails V. Computers, Star Maps, and Data Collection VI. Single Lens Reflex 35mm Cameras VII. Fixed-Lens Digital Cameras VIII. Digital Single Lens Reflex Cameras IX. CCD Cameras X. Image Processing Software XI. Piggyback and Prime Focus Astrophotography XII. CCD Imaging XIII. Photometers and Light Curves XIV. Computer Links with Remotely Operated Telescopes XV. Telescopes and Digital Coordinate Systems XVI. Planning an Imaging Session XVII. Observatory Methods and Practices Course Objectives Course Objectives Through assigned tasks, peer-lead hands-on activities, computer simulated exercises, classroom discussions, and quizzes/exams, students will: 1. Perform computations making proper use of significant figures, scientific notation, calculators, and digital computers 2. Maintain a log of all laboratory and field activities 3. Describe the general optical construction of reflector and refractor telescopes along with their inherent advantages and disadvantages 4. Compute the following optical characteristics of a telescope: magnification power (M), practical magnification (PM), light gathering power (LGP), resolving power (RP), field-of-view (FOV), and f-ratio (FR) 5. Compare and contrast the computed optical characteristics M, LGP, FOV, and FR of a simple telescope with those measured in the lab through the use of an optical bench 6. Determine the optimal telescope to use for a given observational arrangement based on purpose, cost, and portability 7. Describe the observational techniques of astrometry, photometry, and spectroscopy 8. State the functions and processes of an astronomical observatory 9. Explain how to use a computer to link to remote telescopes to collect astronomical data 10. Use image processing software 11. Use rulers, protractors, reticule magnifiers, and similar devices to measure features on astronomical photographs 12. Create a digital image using a CCD camera 13. Create a light-curve using a CCD camera and variable light source in the lab 14. Use a spectrometer to measure and interpret emission lines from fluorescing gas tubes 15. Plan an observing session through the use of constellation charts, celestial almanacs, and astronomical computer software 16. Properly set up a small computerized telescope to visually observe a celestial object during day or evening hours 17. Properly set up a small computerized telescope for the purpose of observing a celestial object with either a camera (DSLR or CCD) or spectrometer 18. Describe, locate, and image the Moon (or Sun), a planet, a multiple star system, a star cluster, a nebula, and a galaxy 19. Complete a semester project in imagery, astrometry, photometry, or spectroscopy which includes a series of images generated using either a 35mm, digital or a CCD digital camera and corresponding image and data analysis Methods of Evaluation Objective Examinations Problem Solving Examinations Projects Reports Skill Demonstrations Reading Assignments 1. Reading from assigned text on a weekly basis Example reading: Read chapter on coupling camera to telescopes. Students are informed of current lab topic. 2. Reading from weekly laboratory exercise sheets (included in required student laboratory manual) on a regular basis. Example reading: Read handout on setting up the telescope. Students are prepared for that week's lab. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Weekly laboratory reports Example report: Complete and submit the lab "Celestial Tools" found in the student laboratory manual. 2. Written project report Example project: From observations taken over several observing sessions with digital and CCD cameras, provide a detailed portfolio of images taken, including documentation. 3. Quizzes, midterm, and final exam to demonstrate acquisition of critical thinking skills and astronomical knowledge. Example exam question: For the purposes of astrophotography, describe the benefits and problems associated with a telescope with a large objective (primary) mirror. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) One assignment is given for each week of class. Each of these assignments will be of a nature that is reflective of the course outcomes. In particular, students will acquire this experience through computer simulations, access to a telescope, and/or a public telescope observation site (either at a Sierra College Astronomy Department site or one owned by an individual or a group with partnership ties to Sierra College). Example assignment: Acquire and assess data captured via the Internet from a remote telescope site. Methods of Instruction Laboratory Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course. 1. Laboratory exercise packet prepared by instructors and updated every semester and distributed through local bookstores. 2. Laboratory handbook prepared by instructors and updated every semester and distributed through local bookstores. 3. Constellation Charts SC-001 (Equatorial Region) and SC-002 (North Circumpolar Region). 4. "Skygazer's Almanac" for the most current year.