ASTR 101 Final: Astronomy Final notes
15 Jan 2019
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Repeatability: experiment must be repeatable so anyone can verify it. Every multiple of 5 is a factor of 100x brighter/dimmer. Luminosity: energy output from surface of star/second; watts. Solar constant: average amount of solar energy constantly reaching earth. To earth, looks like stars are collapsed down to a single 2d surface surrounding us. Earth"s north pole points to the celestial north pole. Earth"s equator expands out to the celestial equator. Line between equinoxes formed by intersection of ecliptic plane, and our equator. Right ascension is measured e of vernal equinox, 0h to 24h. Declination is measured n/s of the celestial equator. Angles measured north of the equator are positive. Time taken sun to return same position overhead. Earth"s rotation and earth"s orbit not lining up-> sun does not follow uniform path. Primary cause of seasons-axis of rotation always points in same direction. Solstices when axial tilt aligns with the sun.
