Homework 4: Due Wednesday, February 18

1. List five bright stars that can be close to the zenith in Northfield.
2. Where on earth would you be (i.e. what would your latitude be) if the star Aldebaran has an altitude of 40^o above the south horizon when transitting?

3. What are the vernal and autumnal equinoxes? What are the summer and winter solstices? How are these four points related to the ecliptic and the celestial equator?
4. At what point on the horizon does the vernal equinox rise? Where on the horizon does it set?
5. Where are you (i.e. what is your latitude) if you took the photograph below. Assume that you are in the northern hemisphere. Show how you arrived at your answer by analyzing the star trails.