Astronomy 101

Spring Quarter 2002

Astronomy Observing Journal

1) The waxing moon: This quarter the moon will be waxing on April 12- April 27 and May 12-May 26. I would like you to observe the waxing moon during one of these time periods for four consecutive nights. You will want to observe the moon at the same time of night and take note of the moons motion relative to the background stars. In your write up, record the observation time, identify what constellations the moon is closest to on each night and explain the moon's direction of motion relative to the background stars. Please include a sketch to clarify your descriptions.

2) Prominent planets: This quarter we have the opportunity to see several planets in the night sky. I would like you to find as many planets as you can and state what constellation they are closest to. You will want to include the date that you observed the planets.

3) Motion of the Sun: On three occasions this quarter I would like you to observe the location on the horizon that the sun sets. To observe the motion of the sun, each of your observations should be from the same spot on the Earth approximately three weeks apart. For your journal entry, I would like you to tell me the dates you observed the sunsets as well as your location. Please include a sketch of the horizon and the location of the sun on each observation date. Lastly, explain the motion of the sunset locations.

4) Your journal will be due on Thursday May 30^th.