Earth and Space Science Project Abstract
CCD TECHNOLOGY
Presenter:
Martha Malin, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506; matrix28@imsa.edu
Advisor:
Ms. Laura Nickerson, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Physics, Aurora, IL, 60506; 630-907-5915; physnicks@imsa.edu
Abstract:
Charged-coupled devices (CCDs) are used to electronically photograph the night sky. Through the CCD’s greater sensitivity to light, they provide control for the astrophotographer, but have several distinct disadvantages. The goal of this inquiry was to track the period of the variable star Beta Persei with the CCD. Using a Meade 416XT CCD and Epoch 2000 software, photographs were produced of various astronomical objects and techniques were learned to focus and guide the camera. Three main problems had to be overcome. The first problem was subtracting light from the photographs that was not produced by the object being photographed. These sources of light are light pollution from surrounding lights, current produced by the camera, dark spots caused by atmospheric disturbances, and dust on the telescope lenses. Correction was accomplished by taking photographs of the problem, such as a car headlight, and then subtracting the frame from the image. The second problem was using outside sources to properly track the telescope while an exposure was being taken. The third problem was using Epoch 2000 software to bring out the features being emphasized in the picture while not making them look artificial. These experiments showed that Beta Persei has a magnitude that ranges from one to four. The established range of magnitudes for Beta Persei is 2.1 to 3.4.