Learning about Parallax and Proper Motion by Searching for Binary Stars

Details Learning about Parallax and Proper Motion by Searching for Binary Stars Learning about Parallax and Proper Motion by Searching for Binary Stars

Jan 2010

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2010aas...21546612p&link_type=abstract

American Astronomical Society, AAS Meeting #215, #466.12; Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, Vol. 42, p.507

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astronomy

Scientific paper

A new web-based, instructional module allows students to explore the Hipparcos catalog of stellar parallaxes and proper motions to determine whether close double stars are physical binaries or chance superpositions. Because the Hipparcos catalog spans the entire sky, the module guides students to manageable regions of sky. Students navigate to a constellation and grid within the constellation to search for possible binary stars systems. Students can then compare and assess proper motions, in terms of both speed and direction, as well as the distances of both stars, to determine whether the potential close pairs are true binary systems. Students must recognize that multiple lines of evidence (apparent proximity, similar distances, and similar proper motions) must converge to establish the reality of a binary pair. The module gives undergraduate students an opportunity to experience scientific research and discovery, engaging their critical thinking skills in the scientific process.
The new module has been developed as part of a collaborative program between the University of Alaska at Anchorage and Indiana University to develop and study the effectiveness of research-based, educational (RBSE) curricula in astronomy for entry-level undergraduate courses. The program is funded through a CCLI award from the National Science Foundation. Further information and access to the web-based RBSE modules is available at www.astro.indiana.edu/catyp/rbseu.

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