The Astronomical League sponsors several (23 so far) observe programs for its members and others are being developed. The equipment required for these various programs ranges from the unaided eye to telescopes with solar filters. The objects of study range from very near solar system to very deep sky. Likewise, there are observing programs to challenge both beginning and experienced observers. See ASTRONOTE 25 for programs based on solar system observing.
The Messier Club
The Messier Club is the oldest of the Astronomical League observing award programs. Observers wishing to earn a Messier certificate must independently locate, observe and log at least 70 Messier objects for a regular certificate. Observers who log all the Messier objects earn an honorary certificate and a distinctive pin. Computer controlled telescopes and digital setting circles are not allowed in this program whose purpose is to teach you to learn your way around the night sky. This program is based on the League manual Observe: A Guide to the Messier Objects. The manual includes descriptions of the objects and log sheets for recording your observations.
The Binocular Messier Club
This program is for beginning observers as well as experienced amateurs. Special arrangements have been made to offer this program to teachers for use as a classroom observing project at any grade level. The only equipment needed is a pair of binoculars. Any binoculars may be used, but those with objectives between 20mm and 80mm are recommended. An award is given for observations of at least 50 Messier objects using only binoculars. Any of the recognized 110 Messier objects may be observed. Observations must be recorded on log sheets similar to those found in the League manual Observe: A Guide to the Messier Objects.
The Deep Sky Binocular Club
This program is similar to the Binocular Messier Club, but requires the observation using binoculars of 60 specified deep sky objects not on Messier's list. Binoculars having objectives of 50mm or greater are recommended. Observations must be recorded on log sheets similar to those found in the League manual Observe: A Guide to the Messier Objects.
The Double Star Club
This Club will introduce observers to 100 of the finest double and multiple stars in the heavens. A large telescope is not necessary since all stars on the qualifying list have been observed using a 3" refractor. You need not travel to the darkest sky sites since many of the stars will be visible from your backyard. See what you can do with your existing equipment from any location! Contact Mike Benson at the address below for a list of the multiple stars, and then go out and have fun.
The Herschel 400 Club and the Herschel II Club
The Herschel Clubs are for more advanced deep sky enthusiasts. This observing program is more challenging than the Messier Club. An observer must locate and log 400 specified objects from William Herschel's catalog to qualify for the Herschel 400 award, then observe an additional 400 objects to qualify for the Herschel II award. Many of these objects are faint, but all can be seen in a quality six-inch scope under dark skies by an experienced observer. The Herschel Clubs are based on the League Manuals Observe the Herschel Objects and Observe the Herschel II Objects.
The Arp Peculiar Galaxies Club
Observing 100 of the 338 objects in the Arp Catalog of Peculiar Galaxies will be a challenge for even the most serious amateur observer. Qualify by observing these 12th-18th magnitude galaxies either visually, photographically or via CCD imaging. Separate certificates are available for each technique.
The Caldwell Club
Sir Patrick Caldwell-Moore has made a catalogue of beautiful and interesting objects you should, literally, go out of your way to observe. The 109 objects on the list range from magnitude 1 through 13, and Declination +85° to -80°, so some diligence will be required. The benefits far outweigh any inconvenience; however, as you will be treated to many wonderful new sights to behold in the night sky, and maybe even make some new international observing friends along the way. Record your observations on The Observers¹ Guide - Deep-Sky Observation Form, or some similar form.
The Southern Skies Binocular and Telescopic Clubs
Selected objects for the Southern Hemisphere are showcased in these two observing programs. The Binocular list can easily be achieved in a couple of clear nights and with careful planning the telescopic list can also be achieved in a minimal amount of time.
The Galaxy Groups and Clusters Club
If you are ready to step beyond the Herschel objects and further challenge and enhance your observing skills then this program is for you. This program of 250 galaxy groups and clusters is designed for detailed visual and/or CCD observation. Intended for the mid-level to advanced amateur this guide and program will challenge and enhance ones observing skills. It provides not only concrete observing methods and techniques, but also historical facts on galaxy groups and their observers. The Galaxy Groups and Clusters Club is based on the League Manuals Observe Galaxy Groups and Clusters.
The Constellation Hunter Observer Club
The purpose of these programs is to provide an orientation to the sky for novice astronomers. They require no special equipment (other than a planisphere and a reference for the brighter star names), and no prior knowledge. The objective is to provide a forum for the novice observer to become more familiar with the constellations and brighter stars, to begin to learn to navigate among the stars, and to provide a solid foundation for moving on to other observation programs such as the Messier Club. The Constellation Hunter Club has two certifications and pins: The Northern Skies and the Southern Skies.
The Master Observer Club
The Master Observer Award will be given to an Astronomical League member who has completed at least ten of the League's observing programs. There is a core requirement of five observing programs (Messier Club; Binocular Messier Club; Lunar Club; Double Star; Herschel Club) to be completed by all. The member will then be allowed to choose any five of the remaining AL observing programs to complete the requirements for the Master Observer Award. Once a member has completed ten of the observing programs, she or he will be given a certificate and pin.
For More Information
The Observe manuals, containing detailed information and forms needed to complete these programs, are available from Astronomical League Sales. The address and current price are listed in the current issue of the League's quarterly newsletter, the REFLECTOR. Each of the observing programs, except the Herschel Club or the Binocular Messier Club (as a class activity), require that the observer be a member of the Astronomical League, either through an affiliated club or as a member-at-large.
