Variable Star Projects - Monitoring Known Variables

One of the best starting points for anybody wanting to study variable stars in a structured manner is the web site of the American Association of Variable Star Observers. If you want to make things a bit easier for yourself I would first study their site in detail before reading this document any further but in any event you will also need to take into account the following key issues.

1. Download and use the AAVSO Variable Star Search Facility to identify stars that can be studied from your observing location and that also have a pre-prepared star chart available for downloading. I would suggest 30 degrees south should be the absolute limit for variable stars to study.
2. What type of variable would most interest you? Short period, long period, regular, irregular? For example short period variables can sometimes have their entire light curve examined in a single night by taking a measurement every 5 minutes whereas long period variables might only need one measurement every two weeks over a period well in excess of a year.
3. Have you practiced the techniques required to extract the scientific data from the image using suitable software - I use MaxIm DL which I have found quick and easy to you and understand - another alternative is Canopus. To gain experience of the techniques required for serious study I strongly suggest that you practice on a variable star with a short period and a large magnitude range.
4. When and where is the target visable from your site? Have you the knowledge and experience to write the script that can be used to control the telescope - if not contact Martin Nicholson for help.

1. TYPICAL LIGHT CURVES - data obtained using RASO facilities
2. CQ TAU - Type INSA
3. BF ORI - Type INA
4. RR CAS - Type M
5. SU LAC - Type M
6. Z CAS - Type M

Some suggestions for possible variable star projects

AAVSO Charts for CCD Campaigns