Summer Observing Program
Introduction
Welcome to the Summer! With the Tri-Valley blessed with clear skies and warm evenings on most summer days, this is
the best time of year to explore the heavens. Tri-Valley Stargazers invite you to take up a simple challenge during
the months of June, July and August to document your observations of the 29 astronomical objects shown in the list
that follows. We have included a
spreadsheet
that lists the targets for this program and includes a log that you can use to keep track of your progress. You can
also print these files by clicking on these links:
target list and
log.
Rules and Regulations
To participate in this program you must be a TVS member. You should use a telescope with an aperture of 4 inches or
greater. Observations should be made visually, not photographically. Observe all 29 objects and keep a log of your
observations using the provided form or any other that includes this information:
- Date and time
- Observing site
- Seeing and transparency
- Aperture size of telescope
- Power used
- A description of the object as it appears in the eyepiece
- An optional sketch of the object
Go-to telescopes are allowed, but star hopping is recommended. Star hopping increases one's familiarity with both
one's equipment and with the stars and constellations.
Submitting for Certification
When you complete the suggested program you may submit your observations to the TVS
for their review and award recognition.
Links
Targets + log:
(Excel format)
Target list:
(PDF format)
Logging form:
(PDF format)
