---

This Unit's

Homework Page

History Lecture

Science Lecture

Lab

Parents' Notes

Natural Science II Lab Exercise for Unit 63: Observing the Colors of Stars

Goal: Observe clusters and galaxies of different types.

Materials and Equipment:

• Star Map
• Telescope or binoculars

Procedure:

1. Using the star map and star calendar resources online, determine the best observing times for the objects listed below. [If you are unable to observe the objects directly because of weather conditions, follow the links to pictures of the object; write down you own impressions before reading about the object.]
2. Messier 31, the Andromeda Galaxy, a spiral galaxy in Pegasus
3. Messier 45, Pleiades, an open cluster in Taurus
4. Messier 13, a globular cluster in Hercules
5. Messier 42, a nebula in Orion

Report:

For each observation, include the date and time of the observation, the position of the object relative to the horizon, the observing conditions (cloud cover, moon's phase and position in the sky). Include your description of the object.

---

© 2005 - 2025 This course is offered through Scholars Online, a non-profit organization supporting classical Christian education through online courses. Permission to copy course content (lessons and labs) for personal study is granted to students currently or formerly enrolled in the course through Scholars Online. Reproduction for any other purpose, without the express written consent of the author, is prohibited.