XV. Observe a Variable Star.

1. Measure the brightness variations of a variable star. There are many stars for which this will work, including Algol, Delta Cephei, Delta Scorpii, Mira. Measure a brightness both from the naked eye and using a small telescope or binoculars if you don’t own or have access to a telescope. To measure a brightness, compare how bright it is to nearby stars (e.g., same brightness as star A, twice as bright as star B, etc.), but make sure you clearly highlight the stars that you are using to compare with (find out their names if you can). You will need to use a star map to determine the visual magnitudes of those stars. In your report you must express the star’s brightness in units of magnitudes. You'll have to figure out how to find the star (start with the internet). Your instructor can help you here and can provide you with custom star maps.
2. Monitor it for 4 times an hour, twice a week, for at least 3 weeks. Make a plot of the brightness as a function of time.
3. Your report should include the star map you used to find the star along with the comparison stars clearly marked. You also must include the plot of brightness and a short analysis of your observations.