Vermont Astronomical Society

Planetary Observation Certificate (Basic)

Must observe a given number of planets from each group:

• Inner Planets: either Mercury or Venus

• Outer Planets: Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn (all 3)

• Remote Planets: either Uranus or Neptune

Telescope Size:	any - must be able to get 100x + (allthough a 4"or larger telescope is suggested but not required).
Filters:	also some colored filters are suggested but not required for this award

Required Information: date, time, telescope size, and power for each observation and drawing.

Requirements for Each Planetary Grouping:

1. Inner Planets: either Mercury or Venus, observe and draw at least 2 times.

   1. 2 different planetary shapes (phase).

2. Outer Planets: observe each of these planets at least 3 times.

   • Mars: observe, identify, and draw:

     1. polar cap

     2. 2 major features: Dark Areas

     3. 1 light feature: Bright Area

   • Jupiter: observe, identify, and draw

     1. 2 different belts

     2. 1 Light Zone

     3. 2 different belt details, Note: GRS counts as one belt detail

     4. Jupiter 4 moons

   • Saturn: observe, identify, and draw:

     1. rings

     2. Cassini's Division

     3. 1 belt

     4. See how many moons you can get (1+)

   • Remote Planets: either Uranus or Neptune, observe and draw at least 2 times.

     1. Disc and Color