Measuring Radial Velocity with Amateur Equipment

In summary, radial velocity is a measure of an object's motion towards or away from an observer, often used in astronomy to measure the speed at which celestial objects are moving towards or away from Earth. It can be measured with amateur equipment using a spectrograph, and can provide accurate data on a variety of celestial objects. This data is used in astronomy to study the motion and dynamics of these objects, and can also aid in the search for exoplanets and other phenomena.
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Drakkith
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Would it be possible to measure the radial velocity of stars with large exoplanets using amateur equipment?
 
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Drakkith said:
Would it be possible to measure the radial velocity of stars with large exoplanets using amateur equipment?

Probably not. Amateur equipment is designed for images, not spectra. Beyond that, getting a RV from a spectrum is tricky and generally gives low-precision results. Only in the past couple of decades have professional techniques emerged that have allowed high-precision RVs needed to detect planets.
 

1. What is radial velocity?

Radial velocity is a measure of an object's motion towards or away from an observer. In astronomy, it is often used to measure the speed at which stars or other celestial objects are moving towards or away from Earth.

2. How is radial velocity measured with amateur equipment?

Radial velocity can be measured with amateur equipment by using a spectrograph, which separates the light from an object into its component wavelengths. By analyzing the Doppler shift of these wavelengths, the radial velocity of the object can be determined.

3. Can amateur equipment accurately measure radial velocity?

Yes, amateur equipment can measure radial velocity with a high degree of accuracy. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of the measurement depends on the quality of the equipment and the skill of the observer.

4. What types of objects can be measured for radial velocity with amateur equipment?

Amateur equipment can measure the radial velocity of a variety of celestial objects, including stars, planets, and even some galaxies. However, the accuracy of the measurement may vary depending on the distance and brightness of the object.

5. How is radial velocity data used in astronomy?

Radial velocity data is used in astronomy to study the motion and dynamics of celestial objects. It can provide information about the mass, orbit, and other physical properties of stars and planets, and can also help in the search for exoplanets and other astronomical phenomena.

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