A Plan for Securing Observations of the Variable Stars E-Book

Edward Charles Pickering

• Herausgeber: Science & Technology Publishing
• Kategorie: Wissenschaft und neue Technologien
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 21

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

A Plan for Securing Observations of the Variable Stars is a seminal work by Edward C. Pickering, first published in 1882, that outlines a systematic approach to the observation and study of variable stars. Recognizing the importance of coordinated and consistent data collection, Pickering presents a detailed methodology for amateur and professional astronomers alike to contribute valuable observations to the growing field of stellar variability. The book discusses the challenges inherent in observing variable stars, such as the need for regular monitoring, accurate recording of brightness changes, and the importance of collaboration among observers worldwide. Pickering provides practical advice on selecting suitable stars for observation, choosing appropriate instruments, and maintaining standardized records to ensure the reliability and comparability of data. He emphasizes the significance of international cooperation and the establishment of networks of observers to maximize coverage and minimize gaps in the data. The work also includes tables of known variable stars, suggested observation schedules, and guidelines for reporting findings to central repositories, such as the Harvard College Observatory. A Plan for Securing Observations of the Variable Stars played a crucial role in shaping the practices of variable star observation and laid the groundwork for the formation of organizations like the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO). The book remains a valuable historical document, reflecting the early efforts to organize and professionalize the study of variable stars, and continues to inspire both amateur and professional astronomers in their pursuit of understanding the dynamic universe.

Leseprobe

A PLAN

FOR

SECURING OBSERVATIONS

OF THE

VARIABLE STARS.

BY

EDWARD C. PICKERING,

DIRECTOR OF THE HARVARD COLLEGE OBSERVATORY.

CAMBRIDGE: JOHN WILSON AND SON. University Press 1882.

A PLAN

FOR

SECURING OBSERVATIONS

OF THE

VARIABLE STARS.

BY

EDWARD C. PICKERING,

DIRECTOR OF THE HARVARD COLLEGE OBSERVATORY.

CAMBRIDGE: JOHN WILSON AND SON. University Press 1882.

A PLAN FOR SECURING OBSERVATIONS

OF THE VARIABLE STARS.

For several reasons the investigations here proposed are especially suited to observers under very various conditions. The work is capable of indefinite sub-division. Small as well as large telescopes may be employed and many observations are needed which can best be made with an opera-glass or field-glass, or even with the naked eye. No attachment is needed to an ordinary telescope, so that no additional expense on this account is required. Useful observations may be made by an unskilled observer provided that he is capable of identifying a star with certainty. The work is quantitative, and the observer has, therefore, a continual test of the increased accuracy he has acquired by practice. As a portion of the investigation will probably lead to the discovery of interesting objects, the observations will possess an interest often wanting in quantitative research. The aid of the professional astronomer is earnestly requested for this scheme. Suggestions by which it may be modified and improved will be gratefully received. The professional astronomer, in consequence of his greater skill, instrumental appliances, and command of his own time, could fill gaps in the work, and thus greatly increase its value as a whole. Such observations could often be made in the intervals of other work or at times unsuitable for the observations to which he was especially devoting himself. It should be added that especial care will be taken not to interfere with observations of variable stars now in progress. Observers of these objects are particularly requested to notify the writer what work they propose to carry out, so that a needless repetition of it may be avoided.

It is on the amateur and student of astronomy that we must depend largely for the success of the plan here proposed. Many such persons spend evening after evening at their telescopes without obtaining results of any permanent value. Either no publication is made and the results are therefore valueless, or time is spent on objects that can be much more usefully examined with a larger instrument. Most commonly the observer has no special plan and spends many hours without result, while the same time might have been employed with equal pleasure to himself and results of great value collected. Those who have not tried it do not realize the growing interest in a systematic research and the satisfaction in feeling that by one’s own labors the sum of human knowledge has been increased.