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Re: (meteorobs) information

Hi Lee,

I would recommend taking everything one step at a time and not try to learn
it all in one session under the stars. We are entering the "slow season" for
meteors, so this is a perfect time to get started. The best way to proceed
is to just begin firing questions at the list here.....there are a lot of
experienced observers here willing to answer your questions.

Regarding right ascension and declination, those are coordinates in the sky
that are similar to the latitude and longitude coordinates on the Earth.
With them, an observer can locate where a shower radiant is in the sky and
can specify where their field of view was centered.

I find it a difficult concept to describe in words, so maybe someone else
can add more to clear it up for you. But I also suggest you visit your local
library and check out an introductory book on astronomy that has star charts
in it. There you should find a clearer discussion, complete with charts. I
recommend Peterson's "Field Guide to the Stars and Planets" but there
are many others.

Mark Davis

----- Original Message -----
From: "Lee Defever" <ldefever@metalcraftdot net>
To: <meteorobs@jovian.com>
Sent: Wednesday, January 03, 2001 10:11 AM
Subject: (meteorobs) information


Hello list,
    I've been a reader of the list for a little more than a year now, and
would like to start learning more. Could someone point me in the right
direction?
    Please forgive [and try to reduce my ignorance] but I, quite confused by
some things, such as ascension and declination.
    I have the MAMN introduction guide and star charts, but am not fully
understanding everything I am reading.
    Any help would be greatly appreciated.
    I live in Cedar City, UT. [southwest UT.] very close to very dark sky
areas, according to light pollution photos. Been here just over 2 years,
seen 2 fireballs and a LOT of other meteors.
        Thanks for the help in advance,
              Lee DeFever
        ldefever@metalcraftdot net




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