Spectroscopy Section - Education and Training

The Importance of Ongoing Spectral Monitoring of Variable Stars

Spectroscopic monitoring of variable stars is a relatively unexplored domain within astronomy, with the potential to produce a wealth of new information. While individual objects, such as some cataclysmic variables, have been studied with high time resolution spectroscopic observations spanning days or weeks, long-term spectroscopic monitoring data for variables does not yet exist. Many interesting variable phenomena occur on time scales of months or years, and we lack the information that could prove critical in advancing our understanding, and in solving long-standing problems, such as the perplexing behavior of semi-regular variables or the still-not-fully-understood RV Tauri variables. Even for shorter period variables, there is much to be learned from high time resolution spectroscopic observation. There are many bright variables with little spectroscopic data available and observers with spectrometers on smaller telescopes have an opportunity to make a significant contribution.

Instructional Materials

These are a series of presentations that are intended to provide the amateur spectroscopist with a strong foundation in basic skills and knowledge of astronomical spectroscopy.  Each topic has one or more presentations for viewing and are available from the Topic link in the table below.  Presentations are added as they become available.

CHOICE Course in Spectroscopy

The AAVSO provides on-line courses in a variety of topics related to variable star astronomy called CHOICE in Astronomy (the Carolyn Hurless Online Institute for Continuing Education in Astronomy ). The CHOICE course for spectroscopy is conducted annually by our scientific advisor, Steve Shore, and covers material designed to help you better understand the nature of spectral signatures and the physical processes behind them.

AAVSO Spectroscopy Manual

The AAVSO spectroscopy manual “AAVSO Guide to Getting Started in Spectroscopy” is a guide intended for anyone new to spectroscopy as well experienced observers wanting to refresh their knowledge. This manual covers the equipment used, procedures and software for acquiring and processing spectra, and information on assessing the quality of your spectra. Download the AAVSO Guide to Getting Started in Spectroscopy.

Spectroscopy Section’s Video Library

The Spectroscopy Section maintains a collection of links to recorded presentations on the topic of spectroscopy in various AAVSO contexts. This library includes spectroscopy-related episodes of our regular webinar series, as well as the intensive 2020 AAVSO Spectroscopy Workshop. Videos can be found here:

Spectroscopy Videos

Spectroscopy Forum

The spectroscopy forum provides a way for members to ask questions, post useful information, receive announcements and exchange other information between, and in addition to, the regular monthly meetings. Access the spectroscopy forum.

Past Presentations

Spectroscopy Tools