Activity 1: Southern Hemisphere, late summer or early fall In
this activity, students will be introduced to the factors that
influence light pollution by observing the constellation
Sagittarius. Several websites have star maps that you can
download. They include: - Stellar magnitude - Review the
procedures for a nighttime field trip and pass out permission
slips. Make copies of star charts and recording forms 1-4 for
all of your students. - Arrange for several parents to take
calls in case of bad weather. - Begin at least one hour after
sun set. Once you gather the students at your observation place
wait at least 15 minutes to allow your eyes and theirs time to
adjust. While you are waiting, discuss any sources of light
pollution and have your students write them in their journals. -
Instruct students to locate Sagittarius (using their star
charts). Starting with recording form one, have the students
circle every star on the chart that they can see in Sagittarius.
- If they see more stars than those on Record