Visual Observing Programs

RASC Observing Programs


For the First-Time Stargazer:

Explore the Universe Logo
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Messier logo
FNGC Logo
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  • Explore the Universe—A program for the novice observer, covering all major astronomical objects, including constellations, bright stars, the Moon, the Solar System, deep-sky objects, and double stars. EtU can be completed with the unaided eye and binoculars, but a small telescope (non-GoTo) may be used as well, as you wish. The EtU certificate and pin is available to all, whether an RASC member or not.
  • Explore the Moon—An introductory lunar observing program with certificate and pin, based on 100 features in the RASC Observer's Handbook, including craters, seas, mountains, valleys, and cliffs. Online resources include standard and mirror-reversed maps. EtM is a great way to learn how to use your telescope. Members can apply for two certificates: telescope (with pin) and binocular.

For the Intermediate Observer:

  • Messier Catalogue—Follow Charles Messier's 18th-century journey through the northern skies by observing his famous list of 110 "not comets," including the Andromeda Galaxy, the Orion Nebula, the Hercules Cluster, and the Pleiades. Many objects will require a mid-sized telescope (100+ mm) to appreciate. The certificate (with pin) is available to members in two versions: Traditional (star-hopping) and Computer-aided (GoTo).
  • Finest NGC Objects—A slightly more challenging deep-sky program for the intermediate observer, developed by Alan Dyer. The Finest NGC Objects contains 110 deep-sky objects, mainly from the New General Catalogue, including the Double Cluster, the Rosette Nebula, the Veil Nebula, and more. Most objects will require a mid-sized telescope (200+ mm) to appreciate. The certificate (with pin) is available to members in two versions: Traditional (star-hopping) and Computer-aided (GoTo).
  • Isabel Williamson Lunar Observing Program—The RASC's intermediate-level lunar observing program, more thorough than Explore the Moon, requiring a mid-sized telescope (150+ mm). It includes a comprehensive list of the best features visible on the surface of the Moon, and detailed observing notes and explanations that will guide you through a complete tour of the amazing surface of our nearest neighbour in space. A certificate (with pin) is available to members.
  • Double Stars—Discover the wonders and joys of double and multiple stars by observing 110 pairs visible in the northern sky. These doubles include: wide through to tight pairings, stars of both equal and different magnitudes and, finally, examples of doubles that range from simple white through to those with contrasting colours. This program provides the observer with an overview of the extraordinary range of double stars. All targets are visible in a small telescope of at least 90mm aperture. The certificate is available to members in two versions: Traditional (star-hopping) and Computer-aided (GoTo).

For the Advanced Observer:

  • Deep-Sky Gems—An advanced list of 154 deep-sky objects (mostly galaxies) selected from David Levy's 40+ years of comet hunting. The selection contains many interesting objects, plus a few challenges, none of which appear other RASC observing programs. A certificate is available to members. (no pin)
  • Deep-Sky Challenge Objects—These 45 objects, selected by Alan Dyer and Alister Ling, challenge even experienced observers. This list requires the use of both small wide-field instruments as well as large apertures in order to complete. A certificate is available to members. (no pin)

 

 

The RASC's observing certificate programs are supported and managed by the Observing Committee.

You may contact the chair of the Observing Commitee by emailing to observing AT rasc.ca or completing an online contact form.

 

RASC Observing Programs (choose one of 3 videos from the menu at upper left)