Full Moon, November 8, 1992. MIT Campus. (Image courtesy of MIT.)
Instructor(s)
James Elliot
MIT Course Number
12.409
As Taught In
Spring 2002
Level
Undergraduate
Translated Versions
Course Description
Course Features
Course Description
This class introduces the student to the use of small telescopes, either for formal research or as a hobby.
This course covers background for and techniques of visual observation, electronic imaging, and spectroscopy of the Moon, planets, satellites, stars, and brighter deep-space objects. Weekly outdoor observing sessions using 8-inch diameter telescopes when weather permits. Indoor sessions introduce needed skills. Introduction to contemporary observational astronomy including astronomical computing, image and data processing, and how astronomers work. Student must maintain a careful and complete written log which is graded. (Limited enrollment with priority to freshmen. Consumes an entire evening each week; 100% attendance at observing sessions required to pass.)