Wonders of the Night Sky
Use Stellarium to complete the following tasks. Set the FoV (Field of View) on the bottom of the screen to 30 degrees. Choose the date to be June 20, roughly at midnight.
The three stars in the handle of the Big Dipper make an arc, and if you follow this curve away from the dipper you should find a bright star.
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What is the name of this bright star?
Arcturus
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Which constellation does this star belong to?
Bootes
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When viewed carefully, many people will say that this star has a distinct color. What color do you see this star having?
I see this star as having a yellow/orange-ish color. •
How many other stars in this constellation are bright enough for you to see.
(Do not zoom in on Stellarium)
8 additional stars are visible in this constellation.
If you continue following the arc formed by the stars in the handle of the Big Dipper past the bright star discussed in questions 1-4, you will come to another bright star, close to the horizon. •
What is the name of this star?
Spica
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Which constellation does this star belong to?
This star belongs to Virgo.
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Which horizon direction (N,S,E or W) is this star nearest to?
This star is right above the SW direction and seems to be closer to W direction. •
We can say: “Arc” to _Arturcus____________________________ and then “Speed” on to Spica___________________
