First exoplanet discovered with astrometry

Astrometry is the process of measuring positions on the 2-D projection of the sky through imaging. So you take a picture of the sky, identify all of the stars against a known star catalog and then determine the position of some object(s) relative to that catalog. Pre-telescope astronomy was based almost solely on (visual) astrometry.

Universe Today reports that this technique was successful in finding a planet orbiting another star. They measured the star wobbling back and forth across their images over a 12-year time period. The star is 20 light years away, which is pretty close in astronomical terms, but it is also small, cool and dim, compared to the sun.

So that’s cool. That makes for at least 2 good planet-finding techniques using only imaging, something you can do from your backyard.

Nice tribute

John Hearnshaw, as part of Cosmic Diary, has written a very nice article: Recollections of three great photometrists: Whitford, Eggen and Cousins. As a student and practitioner of modern astronomical photometry, it is very interesting to read up on my predecessors.

I, too, have recollections of great photometrists, having spent time with Dr. Arne Henden and, more recently, Dr. Arlo Landolt. It is a strange science that has given us a great deal of insight into our universe and stars in particular.

Hubble team

Here is video of some of the people who worked on the mission to upgrade and repair Hubble as they watch it released from the space shuttle.

From http://hubblesite.org/servicing_mission_4/

Really cool Galileo telescope for $15

As you know, it is the International Year of Astronomy (IYA) as well as the 400th anniversary of the astronomical telescope. There is a very cool telescope that is part of these celebrations, the Galileoscope, and it is only $15 and takes just a few minutes to assemble.

If you are an educator, troop leader or other person in front of young people, you can order the scopes in bulk and receive a discount. Or, if you are a generous sort, you could buy some for your school, church or club. If you order > 99 they cost only $12.50 each!

This is a great project. None of us are doing this for the money. This is not a commercial. This is a great learning experience just waiting to happen and/or just a cool little toy to own.

Buy some!

Interview: Peter Brookhouse

We have a new podcast on the feed. Doug interviews Peter Brookhouse about saving Australian observatories from bush fires. It is a fascinating interview that also touches on the horrific fires that killed so many people last year.

Download or listen now!
 

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