Thank you for any assistance.
New to site. Doing the10 Star Tutorial. I had no problem with #1 Star alf Ori, creating that star chart, submitting observations.
Tried to the #2 Star in tutorial eta Geminorum. In the VSP, under "What is the name", I tried eta Geminorum, eta Gem, Propus, HR 2216 ... when none of these worked, I entered the RA and DEC (from WIKI) using the appropriate format but that also failed. I then tried the AUID of 000-BBK-904 and that too came back "Chart ID 000-BBK-904 does not exis". (I used the AUID in the chart ID field).
There is a star chart in the tutorial that has both alf Ori and eta Gem on the same chart but I do want to learn and be able to correctly do things step by step in that turorial. Can you tell me why I can't create the star chart? Thx
i was able to generate a chart in VSP by typing in "eta gem". The other fields were set to my standard defaults, which wouldn't be useful for such a bright star.
For naked eye stars like Eta Gem, you can use the charts in the 10-star tutorial (in this case, the same one as Betelgeuse).
I often find it easier to go straight to observing stars with your equipment than observing naked eye stars. Do you know your limiting magnitude and FOV? I can point you toward some easy Mira stars.
You can also sign up for a mentor. I got one when I was first starting out and he was incredibly helpful, Its a great program.
Clear Skies,
Rich Roberts (RRIA)
Hi Rich and thx. Since I tried eta Gem and so did you (without the caps) I don't know why it keeps rejecting it. Yes, a mentor would be great. I feel the need to first do basic stuff to just get used to the site, tools,etc. I want to do DSLR photometry eventually and the guides are intimidating so I know I'll need help. Right now, simple things like "why can't I produce a chart?"
Are you able to generate a chart if you try a different star? Like S Ori?
Can you attach a screen shot of what you're seeing?
It's working now. I was able to generate other stars. Don't know why I had probs but eta Gem and others fine now.Thx
Hello Robert,
Entering the star name as "eta Gem" (capitalization does not matter) should definitely work which makes me think that there may be another setting on the form that isn't quite right. Try clicking "Clear Form" first, then complete the form and make a screen capture of it first, before you hit "Plot Chart". If it still doesn't work for you please attach your screenshot(s) to a forum post here by using the "File upload" utility under where you make your comment.
Requesting a mentor is definitely recommended when you are getting started. Since taking part in this program is a benefit of membership, you must join the AAVSO first. You can read about this and other benefits of AAVSO membership here: https://www.aavso.org/join-aavso
With best regards,
Sara
Hello Sara,
Yes, I will become a member. I wanted to find my way around things first. I have a strong interest in doing photometry; the guide makes it sound complex and I am good with technical things so I would greatly appreciate a mentor. That's the first thing I am going to do after mymembership.
The star chart is working fine now. I don't know what the issue was. thx
I have never had a problem entering it as Eta Gem. Concerning a mentor, where do you live, in USA? I am on the Mentor Team and would be willing to mentor you if it is for visual work. I am currently mentoring a fellow in the Netherlands. I enjoy doing this and have mentored several people over the past 15 years.
Chris Stephan SET
Hi Chris,
I live in USA, FL. Although I am interested in photometry, I want to become an expert eventually in visual for my own enjoyment and to contribute as well as to mentor others so yes.
Bob ... SRGA. I have entered my first three visuals for Betelgeuse.