At Level 2 - Intermediate, you will learn a simple method for finding the position of asteroids in images, and report the positions to the Spaceguard Centre. We will then let you know if you got it right!
Although strictly speaking this is not the most accurate method for determining the position of an asteroid, it will help you learn about the co-ordinate system used by astronomers.
You will learn how to use Astrometrica for accurate astrometry (as done by amateurs and professionals) in Level 3, and once at Level 3 you will be able to take part in measuring the positions of asteroids in new images and if your measurements are accurate they will be sent to the Minor Planet Center in the US (the international clearing house for asteroid observations) where they will be used to improve the known orbits of the asteroids you measured.
Summary of Level 2 - Intermediate
- Measuring the Positions of Celestial Objects
- Using Computer Software (to Identify Asteroids)
- Measuring the Position of Asteroids
- Reporting Asteroid Positions.
If you would like to learn more about asteroids, comets and in particular Near Earth Objects (NEOs), you can go to the the dedicated part of our website called Introduction to Near Earth Objects.
