Principles of photometry

Abstract

Photometry of different celestial objects with different devices is outlined, and the units of brightness measurement are defined. The detectors (eye, photographic emulsion, photomultiplier, photodiode and charge-coupled device) are described. Color systems in use in astronomical photometry are introduced, and the planning, the observational and reduction techniques are described. The recording of time and methods for the determination of minimum and maximum times of variable stars are outlined. Typical projects for the photometric study of solar system objects (major and minor planets, moons, the Sun and the Moon, comets and meteors) and of variable stars of various classes are suggested. Finally, some advice for the purchase of photometers and CCD cameras is given. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.