| dc.description |
The paper describes how, using a modern computer spreadsheet, it is possible to fit binocular observations of the planets to a theoretical model of circular orbits, from which fundamental data about the solar system may be deduced. Using nothing more than a pair of binoculars, a reasonably accurate star map and a modicum of patience, it is possible to find the periods and relative sizes of the orbits of Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn quite accurately from one's own observations. From these it is possible to illustrate Kepler's third law, and by implication the inverse square law of gravity, in operation on an interplanetary distance scale. With some further assumptions, it is possible to deduce the mass of the Sun. |
