A Mathematical Model to Predict the Resolution of Double Stars by Amateurs and Their Telescopes

Details A Mathematical Model to Predict the Resolution of Double Stars by Amateurs and Their Telescopes A Mathematical Model to Predict the Resolution of Double Stars by Amateurs and Their Telescopes

Oct 2008

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008jdso....4..156n&link_type=abstract

Journal of Double Star Observations, vol. 4, no. 4, p. 156-163.

Mathematics

Probability

Scientific paper

This paper reports the development of a new statistical model for predicting whether a given double star will be resolved by a particular telescope. The model predicts the effect of the magnitudes of the pair, their separation, the telescope aperture and a quantitative estimate of seeing on the probability of resolving the pair. It is based on a database of observations made by members of the Astronomical Association of Queensland, Australia. The paper reviews the phenomenon of resolution, and summarises the literature on the development of criteria for predicting whether a given pair will be resolved, from the 19th century Dawes' criterion to modern attempts to include factors other than just telescope aperture. The development of the new model is then described, including the collection of the data, a statement of the model equations, an assessment of model quality, and demonstrations of its use to show the effects of magnitude difference and seeing on the resolution limit of a range of telescope apertures. Some future work is suggested. The model has been implemented in an Excel spreadsheet which is available from the author at tgn-m@bigpond.net.au.

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