RASC Regular Meeting
TELUS World of Science – IMAX Theatre
FREE and open to the public.
7:00 PM Pre-meeting mix and mingle.
7:30 PM Guest Speaker
Dr. Stella Kafka
Observing Variable Stars with the AAVSO
Variable stars have always been the most intriguing (and fun) targets for observers, professional and amateur alike. Stellar variability, both intrinsic and extrinsic, provide unique insights in critical stages of stellar evolution, help determine distances to nearby galaxies and add to our understanding of explosion physics and chemical enrichment of the Milky Way.
I will introduce some of the most common aspects of stellar variability and their significance in astrophysics. I will discuss their common light curves identifiers, and present work by AAVSO observers that has lead to cutting-edge scientific discoveries throughout the years. Finally, I will discuss how you can participate in variable star observations from your back yard, contributing to the AAVSO International Database and to cutting-edge science.
