FAAS Spectroscopic Certificate Synopsis In order to help encourage amateur astronomers' involvement in stellar spectroscopy the FAAS is offering a novice "Spectral Winter-G Observing Certificate". The project is relatively easy and can be accomplished during one evening of spectroscopically observing eleven first and second magnitude stars and recording the results. The following web pages comprise an observing "kit" that you should print and use for the project. It includes: Certificate Requirements (below); Spectral "G" sky chart illustrating the stellar objects to be observed; Or, you may also select from our Summer Certificate List ; 65+ Bright Star Spectra List, for selections other than those in the "Winter-G": Page 1, Page 2; List of Characteristic Lines by Spectral Class, Notes, and Suggestions; Sample grating work sheet for drawing spectra (four spectra per page); Sample prism work sheet for drawing spectra (four spectra per page); Sample photographic work sheet for displaying spectra photos (three spectra per page). Requirements for the Spectral Winter-G Observing Certificate The candidate must spectroscopically observe each of the eleven bright stars in the Spectral Winter "G" asterism, or select eleven stars from the Summer Certificate List, or the 65+ Bright Star Spectra List that includes at least one star from each of the major spectral types (O, B, A, F, G, K and M), with no duplication of stars having the exact spectral type and class (ex. Sirius and Vega are both A0 stars and are therefore duplicate. However, Sirius and Altair could be chosen since the latter is an A7 star). The observations may be made either with an eyepiece spectroscope, or with an objective prism or grating spectrograph (prism or grating placed in front of a camera lens). Recording the spectra may be made by either drawing visual observations or by photographic means. Drawings: Depending upon the type of spectroscope you have, grating or prism, make copies of the appropriate work sheet. Draw the spectral absorption lines observed on one of the blank spectra of the work sheet for each of the eleven stars observed. Use the visual color regions indicated on each blank spectrum to estimate the most accurate position for the absorption lines. (Notes: [1] If you have an inkjet printer, you may wish to make a master worksheet copy and Xerox duplicates to work on since the ink may run under humid moisture conditions. [2] The designated color regions are for the average viewer and therefore results may vary. Those who are colorblind would best use the photographic work sheet below.) Photographs: Make prints of each of the eleven spectra. Select the work sheet for displaying photographic spectra, and have copies made. Cut the photographs to fit the box positions on the work sheet, and paste them in place. Complete the spectrum data (object, spectral class/type, date and time observed) for each star observed. Using the List of Characteristic Lines by Spectral Class try to identify as many major lines as possible and indicate them on the spectra. Photocopy each of the work pages and send in the copies along with your name and address to: FAAS Spectral Winter-G Certificate, 20 Helen Street, Warren, NJ 07059, USA. The certificate will be mailed within three weeks. (Please include $1.00 [U.S. currency] to help cover postage and handling costs, and do not send in your original data, since it will not be returned). Those completing the project will be listed on this web site. Good observing.