Amateur Scientists - Minor Planets

[higginsdj]

Hi all,

I have now published all (well nearly all) the data obtained/reduced from my images over the years in order to determine Minor Planet/Asteroid/NEO synodic rotation periods.

For those without equipment (or even those with it) here is an opportunity to get some raw data and see what you can do with it. I have not been able to determine the period for all my targets and some of my results may not be the only solutions. Of course, if you do publish any results from this data remember to cite where you got it :thumbsup:

Data can be found: http://www.david-higgins.com/Astronomy/asteroid/lightcurves.htm

Just select the 'Data' link to download a text file containing the data for each target.

Cheers

[xelasnave]

Very impressive and wonderful offer.
I am sure everyone who is able to take advantage of your observations will be most greatful. May I be the first to thank you.
alex

[Ric]

Hi Dave, that is an amazing volume of work that you have published.
You should be commended for that.
My hat is off to you for your dedication.

cheers

[higginsdj]

Thanks Ric,

With the gear you have listed you should be able to get in on the action :D

Cheers

[spacezebra]

Hi David

A great deal of time and effort has gone into your work - excellent.

Cheers Petra

[higginsdj]

Thanks Petra,

I'm about to take delivery of an ETX 105 and maybe a DSI II and want to experiment with some science with this type of setup. The 14" is great but it's tied to it's programme of work and sometimes I wish I had a second scope.

The ETX is far too small for Minor Planet work but should be good enough for bright object photometry such as Variable Stars and Extra Solar Planet work. Can you imagine, for less than $2500 you might be able to do what very few amateurs have ever been able to do before - find or confirm the transit of an extra solar planet! I do believe the Meade CEO's vision for the future is almost here.....

Mind you, I'll hopefully have this little one automated but I don't know how I might overcome any guiding issues yet - it's not like you can piggyback a guide scope to it :P

Cheers