Homework_1_Lunar_ObservationsTR (1)

Homework 1: Moon Observation Lab (93 pts.) Due Mar. 16 th at 12:30pm Hand in a hardcopy when you get to lab that day Purpose: To become familiar with the features and phase cycles of the Moon and to carry out scientific observations. Materials: Paper and pencil, map of the lunar surface, binoculars, lab instructions Instructions: For this lab you will be doing scientific observing. You will be drawing your observations, just as you see them. This isn’t an art class, so I’m not looking for artistic sketches. Just outlines of the shapes you see, or shaded areas, should be enough. The goal is not to draw a spectacular picture of the Moon, but to observe and document the features you see. For Part 1, your observations will be done with the naked eye. For Part 2, you should use a set of binoculars or a small telescope. If you don’t have access to either of these things, you may borrow a set of binoculars from the College by providing a security deposit. Talk to your instructor to borrow binoculars. Part 1: (28) Observe the Moon for at least 16 days over a complete lunar cycle , and sketch what you see. This means you cannot record 16 days/nights in a row…you’ll figure it out). These are not detailed sketches; they should just show the phase as you see them and any other major features that jump out at you. Pay attention to the angle of the phase in the sky and try to include that in your sketch. Your observations will need to vary in time in accordance with the lunar cycle (that’s part of what we’re trying to learn here). If the weather is bad on a particular night, note that on your record but try to make your observations on clear days/nights. From the Moon’s position when you observe it, make an estimate of when it will cross the meridian and record that data on the sheet as well. You must complete at least 13 thumbnail drawings (but you still need 16 observations) , so if you miss more than 3 nights due to weather, you’ll need to extend your viewing period. Record your work on the table on page 2. I expect all cells in the first 6 columns to be filled in. Note: Please do not use planetarium software to complete either portion of this lab. It’s generally fairly obvious that you’ve done so, and you will not receive credit. Part 2: (45) On three of the nights that you observe for Part 1, you’ll also do a detailed observation (I would prefer these detailed drawings are at, or close to, the 1 st or 3 rd quarters and the full Moon. Using the forms on Pages 3-5, draw a picture of the Moon that shows specific features visible through your binoculars. Then use a lunar map to identify these features and label them on your drawing . Again, remember that you’re not being graded on art, but on scientific observation. The large dark patches you see are maria, or seas. They’re easy to spot and draw and might make a good starting point. You can find a lunar map on the internet or in many astronomy books or magazines. You’ll need to complete 3 of these detailed observations, with 5 separate features on each one . This means you’ll identify a total of 15 different features . You’ll lose credit if you repeat the same features from one observation to the next. Part 3: (20) Given what you learn from this exercise you should be able to answer these questions. Note: Part of this lab is an opportunity for you to observe how the Moon changes with respect to its appearance in the sky and its motion across our sky over time. Often in our busy lives we don’t pay close attention to the details of common phenomenon like this (or just don’t ever stop to consider what is happening with a critical eye) and so we can be surprised at what we learn. One thing you will quickly learn is how you need to anticipate your observing schedule. Weather will also be a concern so don’t put this lab of until the last minute.

You have lots of time to complete it so that you have some flexibility. Don’t wait until you have just 16 days left.

Part 2: Detailed Observation 1 (15) Phase Date of Observation Lunar Map Source Time of Observation Altitude Direction Features: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Part 2: Detailed Observation 2 (15) Phase Date of Observation Lunar Map Source Time of Observation Altitude Direction Features: 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Part 3: Questions (20) : 1) (12) Draw a simple illustration of the Sun, Earth and Moon correctly showing all 8 phases with respect to the Sun and Earth. Indicate the direction of rotation and revolution of the Earth and Moon. Shade the darkened side of the Moon in all phases. Label the illustration with the correct primary phases (New, Full, 1 st & 3 rd Quarters) and the dates you saw the Moon in those positions/phases. 2) (2) What is the approximate length of time between identical lunar phases? What can you predict about Moon rise/set on a daily basis? 3) (2) A lunar eclipse will always occur during what lunar phase? Why don’t we see such an eclipse during that phase every month? 4) (4) As the Moon moves through its phases, you can use the shape (visible or darkened side) to determine if it is waning or waxing. For example, if you hadn’t been watching the Moon for some time but a friend asked you one night what phase the Moon was in, you should be able to look at it in the sky and determine its phase as well as whether it was waning or waxing. Explain and draw an illustration demonstrating how you would determine this.