From point of light to astrophysical model – the research reach of the modern amateur

Presenter(s): Thomas J Richards, Colin S Bembrick

Affiliation(s): VSS, ASA

Session details: Sunday, 2018-04-01 05:30:00, MCON

Abstract

Modern software is enabling the amateur astronomer to make significant, publishable research results – not just piling up observations. This paper will present and discuss the research pipeline for eclipsing binary photometry. I will begin with a dot on an image, and show how its analysis leads to a comprehensive determination of the physical parameters of the binary – and even a 3D model.

Biography

Dr Tom Richards is a retired mathematical logician, computer science professor and commercial software developer/entrepreneur. Col Bembrick became interested in astronomy while still at high school, but spent most of his career exploring the geology of NSW. For about 6 years he wangled a job with the University of NSW, looking after their new Automated Patrol Telescope at Siding Spring. Shortly after that he retired to a farm near Bathurst and built an observatory in the paddock. From there he continues to undertake CCD photometry of asteroids and (when he has time) variable stars. Col is working with the VSS team to investigate eclipsing binary systems which are very poorly studied in the southern hemisphere. Both Tom and Col have been actively involved in Variable Stars South for some time, with a particular interest in eclipsing binary systems