Astronomical Observation and Scientific Research of Popular Science Telescope

Subjects: Astronomy >> Astrophysical processes submitted time 2023-12-06 Cooperative journals: 《天文研究与技术》

Chen Xunhao Wu Hong Mu Haiyang

Abstract： We conducted a test using the popular science telescope, Sky-Watcher 150PDS, and the amateur-grade ZWO ASI120MM-S CMOS camera to explore the feasibility of using popular science equipment for professional astronomical observation and scientific research. Initially, we evaluated the basic performance and parameter curves of the CMOS camera, which met the fundamental requirements for professional astronomical observation. Subsequently, we installed the CMOS camera on the Sky-Watcher telescope and performed basic astronomical observations at the Xinglong Observatory, NAOC. We observed the open cluster M35 and the short-period variable star V∗V2455 Cyg, while acquiring the necessary photometric auxiliary images (bias and flat). The acquired data underwent professional astronomical image processing techniques, including astrometric calibration, aperture photometry, and flux calibration. This allowed us to obtain the photometric data, light curve, and performed a simple period analysis for the observed targets. By comparing our photometric results with known star catalogs, we determined that the photometric precision of our system exceeded 0.02 mag, with a differential photometric precision of approximately 0.005 mag. These results demonstrate the capability of popular science telescopes and CMOS cameras for conducting astronomical observations and research. Consequently, this opens opportunities for primary and secondary school students as well as astronomy enthusiasts to actively participate in astronomical scientific observation and research.

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