The 20th annual Symposium will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2009.

Calibration and Use of the 11-Inch Celestron Telescope for Observing and CCD Imaging
Norris 100, 2:30 PM

Culver  Redd,   '11 14
   Major: Physics
   Hometown: Lowell, MI

Sponsor(s): Nicolle Zellner
Support: FURSCA-Bruce A., ’53 and Peggy Sale Kresge, ’53 Science Fellowship

Abstract: 
The purpose of this research was to discern and document the operational techniques of a college-owned 11” Celestron telescope, SBIG CCD Camera, and associated optical equipment such as color filters and Adaptive Optics systems. In addition, this research will investigate several avenues in which this equipment could be used to gather data for analytical astronomy.

The former goal was accomplished by first calibrating the equipment for use at the observing site on the roof of Palenske Hall, then by taking several rounds of test images of objects like Jupiter, The Ring Nebula, and the Andromeda Galaxy. During the imaging process, color filters were tested to determine their feasibility for future astrophotography, and various image enhancement features were tested in an attempt to maximize the equipment’s ability to gather usable data. Finally, operational procedures were developed for use of the equipment and compiled into a comprehensive manual.

The latter goal will be accomplished by using newly purchased equipment upgrades to attempt high-resolution color imaging and to assess the effect of mechanical vibrations within Palenske Hall on image quality. Then, more images will be taken and be used to create color magnitude H-R diagrams of prominent star clusters such as M13 or M15, and possibly to determine periodicity in variable stars like Mira.

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