;

Complete the requirements below:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the night sky and why the pattern of stars changes night by night throughout the year. Know the meaning of the terms celestial equator and poles; circumpolar; and zodiac.

2. Recognise the main constellations and know the names of some of their important stars.

3. Know the meaning of four of the astronomical terms below and where to find examples of:

   • An open star cluster (Pleiades, Hyades, Praesepe, Double Cluster in Perseus)

   • A globular cluster (Hercules)

   • A double star (Mizar and Alcor, Albireo, Epsilon Lyrae)

   • Another galaxy (Andromeda)

   • A nebula (Orion)

   • A red giant (Betelgeuse)

4. Give a general description of the Sun, individual planets, moons, comets and meteor showers, asteroids and meteorites. Know that the Solar System is part of the Milky Way galaxy.

5. Know about man's activities in space, to include SOHO, Hubble, Cassini, and the International Space Station.

6. Explain how the Moon affects the tides. Be able to advise on the state of the tide by using a tide table.

7. Visit a planetarium, observatory or science centre; or explore an aspect of astronomy further using relevant Internet sites.

8. Undertake a project of your choice for three months to further your understanding of astronomy before meeting again with your assessor to discuss your project. Example projects are:

   • Keep a diary of planetary events.

   • Record meteor showers and satellites seen while observing the night sky.

   • Keep a log of Moon halos and phases of the Moon.

   • Collect newspaper or magazine cuttings or website pages reporting on space missions across the world.

   • Maintain a general interest in astronomy and then meet again with your assessor to discuss your experience.

Notes

If you need help designing alternatives to these requirements for those with special needs please contact the Special Needs Office at Gilwell Park.