Celestial Observations and Apparent Magnitude

Flashcards covering observable celestial objects, apparent magnitude definitions and examples, and star rise/set directions based on facing different cardinal points.

What characteristics of stars can be observed with the naked eye?

Brightness, star colors, and star patterns.

What characteristics of stars cannot be seen with the naked eye?

Size of star, distance (d) away, luminosity, movement of star pattern, apparent star separation (angular separation), individual star motions, or actual distance stars are from each other.

What types of celestial objects are noted for 'star pattern motion'?

Streakers (comets), planets, and the Moon.

What is Apparent Magnitude (m)?

A ranking of how bright and how dim a star is. A higher number indicates a dimmer star; a lower number indicates a brighter star.

What is the approximate apparent magnitude of the Sun?

~ -26 m.

What is the approximate apparent magnitude of the Moon?

~ -13 m.

What is the approximate apparent magnitude of the dimmest stars visible in a dark sky?

m = 6.

What is the approximate apparent magnitude of the dimmest stars visible in a city?

m = 4.

What is the approximate apparent magnitude of Vega?

m = 0.

When facing South, what direction do stars rise and set relative to your body?

Stars rise on your left (East) and set on your right (West).

When facing North, what direction do stars rise and set relative to your body?

Stars rise on your right (East) and set on your left (West).