Astronomy 231

Goals for tonight... (Voyager Project 1)

Here are some goals for you to consider as you explore the Voyager package. You will need to be familiar with this material in order to successfully complete subsequent Voyager projects.

1. Learn how to launch the Voyager package. There are two ways. How do these two ways differ?

2. Learn what kinds of information is displayed in the control panel.

3. Learn the function of each of the command boxes in the control panel.

4. Learn how to use the scroll bars.

5. Learn how to set longitude and latitude.

Sonoma State University Observatory (SSUO)

longitude: 122deg. 39' 38" W

latitude: 38deg. 20' 12" N

6. Learn how to set the time.

7. Learn how to get information about displayed objects.

8. Learn how to zoom-in and zoom-out on the Sky Chart. Make sure you also learn how to zoom-in by dragging the cursor on the screen to define a box.

9. Learn about the different views of the sky which can be displayed. Learn how to display different sky views. The most important are Star Atlas and Local Horizon.

Laboratory Project for this week

Work through and complete Project 1 in the Voyages Through Space and Time textbook.

Additional questions and activities for the Conclusions and Comments section of your report...

1. List and explain the information displayed in the Control Panel. You may need to consult the introductory chapters in the Voyages Through Space and Time book for help with this. (You may also need to consult an introductory astronomy textbook.)

2. List and explain the function of the Command buttons along the bottom of the Sky Chart window.

3. What information can be displayed for any object seen on the Sky Chart?

4. Learn how to print out a Sky Chart.

Enter the location and date and time of your birth and print out the Local Horizon view centered on the sun. Identify any planets near the sun. Repeat this process for that same location and time, but for the current year. Describe and explain any differences which you observe for these two plots.

5. If time permits, look at the other menus in the menu bar and try some other commands. Provide written descriptions for the results of your experiments.