Observing Programmes
Using a telescope to make a single observation, for example of an asteroid, is in itself not very useful because the object will be lost amongst the stars in the field of view of the telescope.
If two or three observations are taken at various times the movement of the asteroid against the star background can be detected.
Similarly, observing a star on one occasion will not reveal that the star is producing a varying light output.
Many requests for observations using the NSO Telescope are made within, what is termed, an Observing Programme consisting of more than one observation.
Observing programmes allow observers to:
- Observe and measure planetary dynamics.
- Detect asteroids or comets.
- Mosaic a small area of the night sky to gain a wider field of view - Liverpool Telescope's field of view is 4.6 by 4.6 arc minutes (Full moon approximately 30 x 30 arc minutes).
- Monitor variable stars and outbursts of energy associated with many interesting objects in the Universe.
- Undertake survey work as part of planned projects.
- React to 'targets of opportunity' as exciting events unfold in the Universe.
- Observe a number of different objects, such as galaxies, for comparison purposes.
- Create colour images using three filters.
NSO Investigations for pupils to follow are based around observing programmes available in the Observing section of the NSO website.
