Observing Comets

Author : Nick James,Gerald North
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 241 pages
File Size : 52,9 Mb
Release : 2013-11-11
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781447100799

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Observing Comets by Nick James,Gerald North Pdf

Since comet Shoemaker-Levy collided with the planet Jupiter with stupendous force in 1994 there has been an upsurge of amateur interest in comets. Most comets are first discovered by amateur astronomers because there are so many amateurs looking for them, and techniques and instruments have improved dramatically in the past few years. After a short but detailed introduction to the comets themselves Nick James and Gerald North describe comet hunting, photographing and imaging comets, and digital image processing. The use of computers for orbital calculations and even helping to discover new comets is given a full chapter, as are advanced techniques including comet photometry and spectroscopy. This comprehensive book has an accompanying CD-ROM and is at once a "primer" for comet hunters and a reference text for more advanced amateur astronomers.

Author : David A. J. Seargent
Publisher : Springer
Page : 276 pages
File Size : 50,9 Mb
Release : 2017-03-15
Category : Science
ISBN : 9783319454351

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Visually Observing Comets by David A. J. Seargent Pdf

In these days of computers and CCD cameras, visual comet observers can still contribute scientifically useful data with the help of this handy reference for use in the field. Comets are one of the principal areas for productive pro-amateur collaboration in astronomy, but finding comets requires a different approach than the observing of more predictable targets. Principally directed toward amateur astronomers who prefer visual observing or who are interested in discovering a new comet or visually monitoring the behavior of known comets, it includes all the advice needed to thrive as a comet observer. After presenting a brief overview of the nature of comets and how we came to the modern understanding of comets, this book details the various types of observations that can usefully be carried out at the eyepiece of a telescope. Subjects range from how to search for new comets to visually estimating the brightness of comets and the length and orientation of tails, in addition to what to look for in comet heads and tails. Details are also given of 20 periodic comets, predicted to return between the years 2017 and 2027, that are expected to become suitable targets for visual observing, in addition to information on a famous comet potentially visible each year and subject to great outbursts of brightness.

Author : Stephen J. Edberg,David H. Levy
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 272 pages
File Size : 54,7 Mb
Release : 1994-10-06
Category : Nature
ISBN : 0521420032

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Observing Comets, Asteroids, Meteors, and the Zodiacal Light by Stephen J. Edberg,David H. Levy Pdf

When can you see fireballs and who should you contact if you spot one? When is it best to hunt for comets and meteors and whereabouts? How do you gauge the size of the coma in the head of a comet and estimate its degree of condensation? Clear and easy to use, this guide shows you how to make successful and valuable observations and records of comets, asteroids, meteors and the zodiacal light. For each topic the historical background and current scientific understanding support a wealth of observational techniques. Comet observers are shown techniques for search and discovery. They can learn how to make visual estimates of brightness and size, and how to make photographic studies of cometary heads and tails. Asteroid hunters will find a 'life list' of quarry and guidelines on how to search for these objects and then how to photograph or electronically image them. Fruitful photographic and electronic methods for studying meteors and meteor showers are provided. Visual and photographic techniques show you how to examine the often elusive zodiacal light. The more adventurous are provided with advanced techniques on how to make successful astrometric, spectroscopic and electronic observations. This is rounded off with an invaluable list of centres world-wide to contact with your details of unusual sightings.

Author : David H. Levy
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 200 pages
File Size : 43,5 Mb
Release : 2003-05-15
Category : Science
ISBN : 0521520517

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David Levy's Guide to Observing and Discovering Comets by David H. Levy Pdf

David Levy has held a lifelong passion for comets, and is one of the most successful comet discoverers in history. In this book he describes the observing techniques that have been developed over the years--from visual observations and searching, to photography, through to electronic charge-coupled devices (CCDs). He combines the history of comet hunting with the latest techniques, showing how our understanding of comets has evolved over time. This practical handbook is suitable for amateur astronomers, from those who are casually interested in comets and how to observe them, to those who want to begin and expand an observing program of their own. Drawing widely from his own extensive experience, Levy describes how enthusiastic amateurs can observe comets and try to make new discoveries themselves. David H. Levy is one of the word's foremost amateur astronomers. He has discovered seventeen comets, seven using a telescope in his own backyard, and had a minor planet, Asteroid 3673 Levy named in his honor. He is best known as the co-discoverer of the famous 1994 Shoemaker-Levy 9 comet. Levy is frequently interviewed in the media and succeeded Carl Sagan as science columnist for Parade magazine. He has written and contributed to a number of books, most recently David Levy's Guide to the Night Sky (Cambridge, 2001).

Author : Richard Schmude, Jr.
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 263 pages
File Size : 47,6 Mb
Release : 2010-09-20
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781441957900

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Comets and How to Observe Them by Richard Schmude, Jr. Pdf

Comets have inspired wonder, excitement and even fear ever since they were first observed. But they are important members of the solar system, that contain material from early in the life of the system, held in deep-freeze. This makes them key in our understanding of the formation and evolution of many Solar System bodies. Recent ground- and space-based observations have changed much in our understanding of comets. Comets, and How to Observe Them gives a summary of our current knowledge and describes how amateur astronomers can contribute to the body of scientific knowledge of comets. This book contains many practical examples of how to construct comet light-curves, measure how fast a comet’s coma expands, and determine the rotation period of the nucleus. All these examples are illustrated with drawings and photographs. Because of their unpredictable nature comets are always interesting and sometime spectacular objects to observe and image. The second part of the book therefore takes the reader through the key observing techniques that can be used with commercially available modern observing equipment, from basic observations to more scientific measurements.

Author : David J. Eicher
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 225 pages
File Size : 42,9 Mb
Release : 2013-09-23
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781107513501

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COMETS! by David J. Eicher Pdf

Join David J. Eicher in this fast-paced and entertaining journey through the history, present, and future of these important yet mysterious cosmic bodies. From ancient times, humans have been fascinated by 'broom stars' and 'blazing scimitars' lighting up the sky and moving against the fixed background of stars. The Great Comets of our time still receive in-depth attention - ISON, Hale-Bopp, Hyakutake, West, and others - while recent spacecraft encounters offer amazing insight into the earliest days of the solar system. In this guide you will discover the cutting-edge science of what comets are, how they behave, where they reside, how groups of comets are related, and much more. The author carefully explores the ideas relating comets and life on Earth - and the danger posed by impacts. He finishes with practical, how-to techniques, tips, and tricks on how to successfully observe comets and even to capture your own images of them.

Author : David J. Eicher
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 225 pages
File Size : 49,7 Mb
Release : 2013-09-23
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781107622777

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COMETS! by David J. Eicher Pdf

Practical guide to the history and science of comets, including techniques and tips on how to observe and image them.

Author : John C. Brandt,Robert D. Chapman
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 478 pages
File Size : 51,8 Mb
Release : 2004-03-11
Category : Science
ISBN : 0521004667

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Introduction to Comets by John C. Brandt,Robert D. Chapman Pdf

Publisher Description

Author : Daniel C Boice,Thomas Hockey
Publisher : Morgan & Claypool Publishers
Page : 139 pages
File Size : 55,5 Mb
Release : 2019-04-25
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781643274461

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Comets in the 21st Century by Daniel C Boice,Thomas Hockey Pdf

Have you ever seen a comet? It is a marvelous experience, one that all humans can share, that spawns a deep yearning to understand the spectacle. Have you ever wondered what comets are and why astronomers spend so much time studying them? Now, a comet expert and an astronomical historian have come together to produce the unique book that you now hold in your hands. Using their several decades of teaching experience, the authors have concisely presented the information you need to comprehend these majestic apparitions that grace our night skies. No mathematical proficiency is needed, in fact, this book doesn't contain a single equation! Comets are cosmic Rosetta stones, bridging our current knowledge by digging back to the earliest days of our Solar Systems. How did life arise on Earth? Did comets play a significant role in bringing water and the necessary organic matter to our early Earth? How about the dinosaurs? Were they driven to extinction by a cometary impact 66 million years ago? Comets may be both the enablers and destroyers of life on Earth as we know it. These are some of the tantalizing questions discussed here. If you so desire, steps are given to join the ranks of amateur comet hunters. Astronomy is one of the last sciences where amateurs play a significant role. Your reward for discovery? A comet officially bearing your name in the history books! The next Great Comet is on its way, we just do not know when it will arrive. Armed with this book, you will be ready to enjoy this unforgettable event.

Author : Ormond Stone,Herbert C. Wilson
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 114 pages
File Size : 45,7 Mb
Release : 1883
Category : Comets
ISBN : BSB:BSB11601867

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Observations of the Comets of 1880, 1881 and 1882 by Ormond Stone,Herbert C. Wilson Pdf

Author : Neil Bone
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 203 pages
File Size : 44,9 Mb
Release : 2012-12-06
Category : Science
ISBN : 9781447105794

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Observing Meteors, Comets, Supernovae and other Transient Phenomena by Neil Bone Pdf

Many books cover permanent astronomical objects, but few consider transient, out-of-the-ordinary astronomical phenomena. This book covers a wide range of topics, from the partly-predictable to the totally unpredictable. At one end: of the scale, it gives advice on the best ways to observe meteors, and at the other end:, it describes the best methods for undertaking painstaking searches for new comets and supernovae. The book also includes material about phenomena that occur in the lower atmosphere, such as "ozone eaters", nacreous clouds, and solar and lunar halos.

Author : Nick James,Gerald North
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 252 pages
File Size : 50,7 Mb
Release : 2014-01-15
Category : Electronic
ISBN : 1447100808

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Observing Comets by Nick James,Gerald North Pdf

Author : Robert Burnham
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 68 pages
File Size : 53,5 Mb
Release : 1997-01-28
Category : Science
ISBN : 0521586364

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Comet Hale-Bopp by Robert Burnham Pdf

How to find, view and photograph the comet of the century!

Author : John Williams
Publisher : BoD – Books on Demand
Page : 210 pages
File Size : 49,7 Mb
Release : 2023-02-19
Category : Fiction
ISBN : 9783382114176

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Observations of Comets by John Williams Pdf

Reprint of the original, first published in 1871. The publishing house Anatiposi publishes historical books as reprints. Due to their age, these books may have missing pages or inferior quality. Our aim is to preserve these books and make them available to the public so that they do not get lost.

Author : Donald K. Yeomans
Publisher : Unknown
Page : 56 pages
File Size : 55,6 Mb
Release : 1983
Category : Comets
ISBN : UIUC:30112082279735

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The Comet Halley Handbook by Donald K. Yeomans Pdf