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July 18-25, 1998
Beginning Observers' Field School
The beginning Observers' Field School will be conducted for the first time, during NSP5. The field school was requested by several
participants in previous years, so ... here it is.
Who is it for?
The field school is designed for participants of any level although beginning observers and spouses of observers will benefit the most.
Advanced observers may want to participate just to brush up on some skills left behind because of high tech avenues they have taken.
Intermediate observers may also enjoy some brushing up as well as possibly learning a few new tricks.
Who will teach the field school?
The field school will be conducted by Brenda Culbertson, an advanced amateur astronomer. She is currently assisting Observational
Astronomy Lab at Washburn University of Topeka, Topeka, Kan. Culbertson has presented topics designed for beginners during the
previous three NSPs and has been well received. She has been published in "Sky & Telescope", "Astronomy", "Observatory Techniques",
and several large newsletters.
Assisting Culbertson will be several observing tutors who will help students conduct their nightly assignments. A list of tutors will be
provided during the field school.
Will I need a telescope?
Participants will not need any equipment, although if it is available it will be utilized. Tutors are willing to give guidance with telescope
use, using their telescopes. If participants have any equipment they will be guided in use, maintenance, and care. Participants will have
plenty of opportunities to use their equipment, or tutors' equipment.
What other things will I need?
Field school participants will need their eyes, minds, and reasoning powers. A pencil, red flashlight, and chair will be good to bring as
well. A camera for astrophotography?
Will anything be provided?
A handbook will be provided to field school participants. Brenda Culbertson will be the editor / publisher and main writer of the
handbook. She will include a few edited pieces of other people's works to help explain some of the processes. Other materials will be
provided as needed to complete lab assignments.
What are the class topics?
Here is a class schedule (subject to change as necessary - like weather) Classes will meet at the designated area at the campground /
observing area.
Monday (07/20/98) 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Observing Basics - Etiquette in the observing field
5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Setting up Equipment - Polar alignment, collimating, etc.
Tuesday (07/21/98) 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Chart reading, star hopping, and setting circle use
7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Identifying Objects and Documenting Observing Sessions
Wednesday (07/22/98) 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Care and maintenance of equipment
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
More about equipment use - Binoculars, telescopes, CCD cameras, etc.
Thursday (07/23/98) 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Requested topic by participants since many will be on the river trip.
9:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Beginning astrophotography techniques
Nightly activities will be assigned each day, so participants can practice newly obtained observing skills. Tutors will be on hand to assist
students with these assignments.
The field school handbook will have several activities for every level of expertise. These can be worked on during NSP and after.
Schedule