Observing Variable Stars is a fun way to learn about Stellar Evolution and Astrophysics!
I love observing the stars with binoculars from my back yard. Estimating the visual magnitude of those stars and then submitting the observations to the AAVSO (American Association of Variable Star Observers) is a way to contribute to scientific observation and the collection of useful scientific data.
There are many ways to learn about observing Variable Stars. Here are my two favorite places;
I’ve found that I learn more and more each time I search, observe and record data on variable stars. You’ll intimately learn the nightsky, understand how to estimate visual magnitudes of stars, understand the color of stars and how that applies to stellar evolution and many more fascinating aspects of Astronomy.
Reply if you also like observing the stars and would like to submit useful scientific data that professional astronomers will use for centuries to come!
Those are excellent images! Looks like you have access to multiple catalogs and can do photometry. Were you able to submit your observations to the AAVSO?
Here is a very helpful aid to start observing variable stars. These are bright stars that are visible by naked eye or small binoculars. It doesn’t matter if you observe from dark skies or from bright city skies, these stars are visible, and great to get started.
Learning how to estimate the magnitude of stars with your own eyes is very rewarding. It will give a new depth to your observing sessions. I highly recommend it.
Keep your eyes peeled and get out early in the morning to look at T CrB (T Corona Borealis). This binary system (white dwarf and red giant) are in a close cosmic dance that allows the outer layers of the red giant to fall onto the white dwarf causing the white dwarf to explode about every 80 years.
It is due to go off any day now! (sometime in 2025)
The current visual magnitude of T CrB is around 10.1 and can be easily seen in binoculars, just make sure you know where to look. A star chart will help.
Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity. When T CrB goes nova it will brighten, in less than one day, to approximately magnitude 1.8 and then fade quickly over the next couple weeks.
