10 experiments in astronomical spectroscopy for amateurs - Paperback

by Olivier Garde (Author)

The field of investigation of astronomical spectroscopy is vast and can provide a wealth of information about the celestial objects observed (Planets, stars, nebulae, novae, supernovae, galaxies, quasars) through the light they emit.

Indeed, this light can be broken down into an atomic spectrum, and based on its analysis and current knowledge of physics, it is possible to determine various characteristics of the star being studied.

This book presents methods and tools used for spectrum analysis and covers topics such as:

- the measurement of velocity (radial, orbital, rotational, redshift),

- the evolution over time in certain spectral lines,

- the explosion of a nova or supernova,

- the physical nature of an object (is it a planetary nebula? Is it a galaxy?).

Spectroscopy also allows for the reconstruction of an image by digitizing the surface of a planetary nebula at a given wavelength. It is also possible to estimate the temperature of a star and even evaluate its density.

For each chapter, the author indicates the type of equipment to be used (optics, camera, spectrograph) and explains step-by-step the methodology for producing the necessary data (acquisition, data processing, etc.) using ten concrete examples that the author has tested himself.

This book is intended for amateur astronomers who are curious to learn what can be gleaned from a spectrum so that they can then make their own observations and analyses sometimes rivaling those of professionals!