Optimal Right Ascension Values for Star Viewing at Different Latitudes

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  • #1
Jimbob999
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Homework Statement


What range of values of right ascension would be best for viewing stars at a latitude of -32 degrees, 20 arcmins, 10 arcseconds on September 21st? What about an observer at 45deg22arcm11arcs?

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



On these dates the Sun would be approximately at 0 hours of right ascension in southern hemisphere as it is the vernal equinox. Because of this, between 0hrs and 6hrs of right ascension will be blocked by the sun as well as 18 to 24 hours. Thus between 7 hours of right ascension and 17 hours would be best for viewing the stars at this date. For northern hemisphere, 6-18hrs are blocked by the sun, therefore 0-5hr and 19-24hr are best for viewing.

I am not sure if I am on the right track here or not and how to get more precise based on the degree of latitude?
 
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  • #2
Hmm is this in the wrong subforum perhaps?
 

What are "Values of Right Ascension"?

Right Ascension refers to the angular distance of a celestial object measured eastward along the celestial equator from the vernal equinox to the hour circle of the object. It is commonly used in astronomy to determine the position of stars and other celestial bodies.

How are "Values of Right Ascension" measured?

Values of Right Ascension are measured in units of time, typically in hours, minutes, and seconds. It is based on the rotation of the Earth and is measured in relation to the vernal equinox, which is the point where the sun's ecliptic intersects with the celestial equator.

Why are "Values of Right Ascension" important in astronomy?

Values of Right Ascension are important in astronomy because they help astronomers locate and identify celestial objects. By knowing the right ascension and declination of an object, astronomers can pinpoint its exact location in the sky and track its movements over time.

What is the range of "Values of Right Ascension"?

The range of Right Ascension values is 0 to 24 hours, with 0 hours being the vernal equinox and 24 hours being the same point after one full rotation of the Earth. This allows for a full 360-degree measurement of the celestial sphere.

How do "Values of Right Ascension" relate to longitude on Earth?

Right Ascension and longitude on Earth are directly related, with a difference of 15 degrees in longitude equaling 1 hour of Right Ascension. This is because the Earth rotates 360 degrees in 24 hours, resulting in 15 degrees of rotation per hour.

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