23rd Annual Student Research Conference
A New Photometric System for Observing Bright Variable Stars at the Truman Observatory
Chad O. Williamson* and Miguel A. Fernandez
Dr. Matthew M. Beaky, Faculty Mentor
Photometry refers to the measurement of the apparent brightness of stars and how that brightness varies with time. Charge-coupled device (CCD) photometry in particular utilizes CCD imaging, a technology that allows highly linear measurements of a stars brightness to be taken with relative ease. In the case of especially bright stars, however, most telescopes focus too much light onto the imager, causing it to become saturated even with short exposure times. As a consequence, most bright variable stars are not well studied photometrically. We are developing a system similar to the Bright Star Monitor constructed by the American Association of Variable Star Observers to make observations of very bright stars. Located at the Truman Observatory, it consists of a 60mm Takahashi FS-60C telescope, robotic focuser, and a SBIG ST-8XE CCD camera. A progress report and preliminary data will be presented.
Keywords: Astronomy, Photometry, Bright Star Monitor, Truman Observatory, Variable Stars
Topic(s):Astronomy
Physics
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 33-4
Location: MG 1096
Time: 2:00