My Astronomy Class - Exploring Andromeda

[Ad Astra]

Hi Folks,

This is an excellent activity for those of you who are learning to use binoculars for astronomy. Learning to 'star hop' with binoculars is a fun activity - as well as a useful skill.

Andromeda and its famous galaxy are well up in the sky these days, and you can easily find them by locating the "Great Square" of Pegasus, then sweeping down the double curve of stars that make up Andromeda.

After sketching this double constellation - sweep along the northern side of the 'horn' of Andromeda and locate M-31. Dark skies and patience help! You can also use the technique of sweepingwith the bins. Motion will often reveal detail in a faint object that just staring will not. See if you can detect the direction of the ellipse of the galaxy - and with luck, you may also see Andromeda's dwarf companion!

Have fun, and let me know how you do!

Dan

Lab #12 - The Andromeda Galaxy.doc