Task B - Aided Observation
Introduction
An aided observation means an observation carried out with the aid of of astronomical instrument such as a camera, telescope or binoculars. Be sure to include full details of what optical instruments you used in your report including settings.
There are also a number of robotic telescopes available and free for students to use. e.g. the Bradford Robotic Telescope. If you use one of these you must include documentation / evidence that the images obtained were requested by you and obtained on your behalf. (not just Googled!)
IMPORTANT - as you are using an instrument the level of detail required in any sketches must be greater.
If you compare the the lists of tasks for the unaided and aided observations you will see that the expectations are different.
Basically you are required to do the following, as you were for the unaided observations;
The marking criteria is exactly the same as for the unaided task
Design
Detailed astronomical knowledge and understanding used to design the most appropriate observing programme with a range of sites, times and instruments evaluated.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
Observation
Excellent programme of observations completed and recorded, providing conclusive data for the task.
Full observational details included clearly and accurately.
Analysis
Full analysis of the observational data, resulting in clear conclusions related to the task set.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
Evaluation
Clearly reasoned quantitative assessment of the accuracy of the observational data obtained.
Detailed suggestions for improvements or extensions to the observations.
Spelling, punctuation and grammar used with considerable accuracy. Good range of astronomical terminology used correctly.
The Aided List for examinations in 2011