Space Science - Concepts 1: Sky Coordinates
Before we dive deeper into "Space Science with Python" coding topics, let's get an overview of an important concept that I would like to introduce and explain today: Sky Coordinates!
All objects in space move in 3D; though their appearance at Earth is 2D. Their movement is a projection on our sky. Based on these observations we are able to determine e.g., the orbit of an asteroid, or to catalogue miscellaneous objects to provide a map for other amateur or professional astronomers.
But what is the position of an object in the sky? What are the basics and how is the sky "separated" or "divided" to perform quantitative astronomical observations?
In today's session I will give you an introduction into two coordinate systems: The Equatorial and Ecliptical Coordinate System.
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Stellarium (used for the demo today): https://stellarium.org/
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Content:
0:00 Introduction
1:27 Ecliptic Coordinate System
13:20 Equatorial Coordinate System
22:00 Other Systems, Summary & Outlook
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There is a lot to do and to learn and I hope you will join the journey. Meanwhile, if you have questions or ideas, reach out to me via:
Twitter: / mrastrothomas
Reddit: / mrastrothomas
GitHub: https://github.com/ThomasAlbin
Or drop a comment!
Talk to you later,
Thomas