diff --git a/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/capricornus.png b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/capricornus.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..edb6ae8 Binary files /dev/null and b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/capricornus.png differ diff --git a/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/lyra.png b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/lyra.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5809d3b Binary files /dev/null and b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/lyra.png differ diff --git a/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/sagittarius.png b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/sagittarius.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..489c8d5 Binary files /dev/null and b/assets/images/observation/night sky/constellations/sagittarius.png differ diff --git a/index.md b/index.md index 35258be..c5e17f7 100644 --- a/index.md +++ b/index.md @@ -25,3 +25,15 @@ Ever fancied yourself as a galactic grammar guru or a nebula-naming ninja? Buckl Contributing is easier than deciphering alien hieroglyphics - just imagine Wikipedia with a side of starlight and a dash of GitHub-flavoured quirkiness. Whether you're a code conjurer or a prose prodigy, our celestial circus welcomes all under our intergalactic big top. Feel the gravitational pull of knowledge? Got a comet-worthy quip or a pulsar-powered pun? Fork us on [Github](https://github.com/astroclubiitk/wiki) and shout us a pull request; let's turn this wiki into a supernova of collective brilliance. Because, in the words of our favorite cosmic philosophers, "knowledge shared is knowledge squared." Join the comsic jamboree, where stars align and contributors shine - because when it comes to exploring the universe, we believe in open-sourcing the cosmos and sharing the astronomical love! + +--- + +#### Table of Contents + +- [Home](#top) +- [Observation](./observation/) +- [Astrophotography](./astrophotography/) +- [Theory](./theory/) +- [Computational](./computational/) +- [Club](./club/) +- [Random](./random.html) diff --git a/observation/night sky/constellations.md b/observation/night sky/constellations.md index 0179eae..d3c3f02 100644 --- a/observation/night sky/constellations.md +++ b/observation/night sky/constellations.md @@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ Some examples of asterisms are: 1. The Big Dipper (part of [Ursa Major](#ursa-major)) 2. The Southern Cross (part of Crux) -3. The Summer Triangle (made of stars from [Cygnus](#cygnus) - Deneb, Lyra - Vega, and [Aquila](#aquilla) - Altair) +3. The Summer Triangle (made of stars from [Cygnus](#cygnus) - Deneb, [Lyra](#lyra) - Vega, and [Aquila](#aquilla) - Altair) 4. Pleiades (part of [Taurus](#taurus)) ### Stars @@ -53,9 +53,9 @@ The following are some of the commonly known [constellations](#constellations) a > Now that you've scrolled till here, **BEWARE!** > -> If you plan on applying to become a secretary, you must be familiar with these. If you plan on applying to become a coordinator of the Astronomy Club of IIT Kanpur, you should know these by heart. If you don't, Tarish'll come for your soul. +> If you plan on applying to become a [secretary](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#secretary), you must be familiar with these. If you plan on applying to become a [coordinator](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#coordinator) of the Astronomy Club of IIT Kanpur, you should know these by heart. If you don't, Tarish'll come for your soul. > -> These _might_ be asked during your secretary/coordinator interview if the night sky permits and the present coordinators see it fit. You can thank us later. Believe us, it's worth it. If you don't believe us, ask the present coordinators. +> These _might_ be asked during your [secretary](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#secretary) / [coordinator](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#coordinator) interview if the night sky permits and the present [coordinators](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#coordinator) see it fit. You can thank us later. Believe us, it's worth it. If you don't believe us, ask the present [coordinators](../../club/teams/recruitment.html#coordinator). ### Andromeda @@ -93,6 +93,12 @@ The following are some of the commonly known [constellations](#constellations) a ![Canis Major](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/canis%20major.png) +### Capricornus + +[Capricornus](#capricornus), known as [Capricorn](#capricornus), is a zodiacal [constellation](#constellations) embodying the sea-goat of Greek mythology, a creature that merges elements of a goat and a fish. Positioned in the southern celestial hemisphere, this [constellation](#constellations) is modest in its stellar brightness but holds significance as one of the zodiac signs, marking the winter solstice in astrology. Its distinct triangular shape represents a goat's horn or a fish-tailed creature, with notable features like the globular cluster Messier 30 (M30), a stellar congregation formed billions of years ago. + +![Capricornus](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/capricornus.png) + ### Cassiopeia [Cassiopeia](#cassiopeia) is a distinctive "W" or "M" shaped [constellation](#constellations) located in the northern hemisphere. In Greek mythology, it represents Queen [Cassiopeia](#cassiopeia), who boasted about her beauty and incurred the wrath of the sea god Poseidon. The [constellation](#constellations) contains several bright stars, with the most prominent being Schedar, Caph, and Ruchbah. [Cassiopeia](#cassiopeia) is part of the Perseus [constellation](#constellations) family and is known for its rich deep-sky objects, including the open star cluster Messier 52 and the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. Due to its circumpolar nature, [Cassiopeia](#cassiopeia) can be observed year-round in the northern hemisphere, making it a familiar and easily identifiable feature of the night sky. @@ -123,6 +129,12 @@ The [constellation](#constellations) that shares its name with the [club's annua ![Leo](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/leo.png) +### Lyra + +[Lyra](#lyra), a celestial [constellation](#constellations) in the northern sky, holds a rich mythological legacy as the harp of Orpheus from Greek mythology. Its prominent star Vega, one of the brightest in the sky, anchors this [constellation](#constellations). [Lyra](#lyra)'s distinctive shape resembles a small parallelogram, with Vega marking its apex, emitting a brilliant bluish-white radiance. Apart from its stellar gem, [Lyra](#lyra) boasts the Ring Nebula (M57), a mesmerizing planetary nebula resembling a cosmic smoke ring. As a cultural symbol, [Lyra](#lyra) represents the harmony and artistic inspiration associated with music, echoing the myth of Orpheus's enchanting melodies. This [constellation](#constellations)'s presence in the heavens is a reminder of the creative spirit and the profound beauty found in the arts, resonating through the timeless tales and melodies echoing from its mythological origins. + +![Lyra](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/lyra.png) + ### Orion [Orion](#orion) is one of the most recognizable and prominent [constellations](#constellations) in the night sky, named after the mighty hunter from Greek mythology. It is characterized by its distinctive three-star belt, aligned almost perfectly with Earth's celestial equator. [Orion](#orion)'s prominent stars include Betelgeuse and Rigel, marking his left shoulder and right foot, respectively. The [constellation](#constellations) is home to numerous deep-sky objects, such as the [Orion](#orion) Nebula, a stellar nursery located within the "sword" hanging from [Orion](#orion)'s belt. It is visible in both hemispheres and holds cultural significance across various civilizations. [Orion](#orion) is a prominent feature in the winter night sky and is often used as a reference point for stargazing and navigation. @@ -141,6 +153,12 @@ The [constellation](#constellations) that shares its name with the [club's annua ![Perseus](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/perseus.png) +### Sagittarius + +[Sagittarius](#sagittarius) is a striking [constellation](#constellations) visible in the southern hemisphere, named after the centaur of Greek mythology, often depicted as a half-human, half-horse archer. Known for its teapot-shaped asterism, [Sagittarius](#sagittarius) resides in the heart of the Milky Way, boasting a wealth of celestial wonders. Among its treasures is the center of our galaxy, the Milky Way's bulge, and a plethora of star clusters, nebulae, and cosmic phenomena. The [constellation](#constellations) is home to the impressive Lagoon Nebula (M8) and the colorful Trifid Nebula (M20), captivating celestial clouds of gas and dust that birth new stars. [Sagittarius](#sagittarius)' brightest star, Epsilon Sagittarii (Kaus Australis), marks the "lid" of the teapot, guiding stargazers toward its celestial marvels. In astrology, [Sagittarius](#sagittarius) represents traits of adventure, exploration, and philosophical pursuits, echoing the mythical archer's quest for knowledge and discovery in the vastness of the cosmos. + +![Sagittarius](../../assets/images/observation/night%20sky/constellations/sagittarius.png) + ### Scorpius [Scorpius](#scorpius) is a prominent zodiacal [constellation](#constellations) located in the southern celestial hemisphere. It is named after the scorpion from Greek mythology, sent by the goddess Artemis to sting the hunter Orion. The brightest star in [Scorpius](#scorpius) is Antares, often referred to as the "Heart of the Scorpion" due to its reddish hue. [Scorpius](#scorpius) is easily recognizable for its distinctive "J" or fishhook shape, which represents the scorpion's body and tail. This [constellation](#constellations) is home to several interesting deep-sky objects, including the open cluster Messier 7 and the globular cluster Messier 4. [Scorpius](#scorpius) is a prominent feature in the southern night sky during the summer months and can be seen from southern latitudes. diff --git a/observation/night sky/deep sky objects.md b/observation/night sky/deep sky objects.md index 32ba34c..f18c760 100644 --- a/observation/night sky/deep sky objects.md +++ b/observation/night sky/deep sky objects.md @@ -27,21 +27,21 @@ Initially containing only 45 [DSOs](#deep-sky-objects), the yet unnumbered [Mess A list of the most famous [Messier Objects](#messier-objects), their number and the constellation in which they're found is given below: -| Number | Name | Constellation | -| ------ | ---------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- | -| M45 | Pleiades | [Taurus](./constellations.html#taurus) | -| M21 | Andromeda Galaxy | [Andromeda](./constellations.html#andromeda) | -| M42 | Orion Nebula | [Orion](./constellations.html#orion) | -| M22 | Sagittarius Cluster | Sagittarius | -| M33 | Triangulum / Pinwheel Galaxy | Triangulum | -| M20 | Trifid Nebula | Sagittarius | -| M16 | Eagle Nebula | Serpens | -| M27 | Dumbbell Nebula | Vulpecula | -| M101 | Pinwheel Galaxy | [Ursa Major](./constellations.html#ursa-major) | -| M104 | Sombrero Galaxy | [Virgo](./constellations.html#virgo) | -| M1 | Crab Nebula | [Taurus](./constellations.html#taurus) | -| M51 | Whirpool Galaxy | Canes Venatici | -| M57 | Ring Nebula | Lyra | +| Number | Name | Constellation | +| ------ | ------------------- | ------------------------------------------------ | +| M45 | Pleiades | [Taurus](./constellations.html#taurus) | +| M31 | Andromeda Galaxy | [Andromeda](./constellations.html#andromeda) | +| M42 | Orion Nebula | [Orion](./constellations.html#orion) | +| M22 | Sagittarius Cluster | [Sagittarius](./constellations.html#sagittarius) | +| M33 | Triangulum Galaxy | Triangulum | +| M20 | Trifid Nebula | [Sagittarius](./constellations.html#sagittarius) | +| M16 | Eagle Nebula | Serpens | +| M27 | Dumbbell Nebula | Vulpecula | +| M101 | Pinwheel Galaxy | [Ursa Major](./constellations.html#ursa-major) | +| M104 | Sombrero Galaxy | [Virgo](./constellations.html#virgo) | +| M1 | Crab Nebula | [Taurus](./constellations.html#taurus) | +| M51 | Whirpool Galaxy | Canes Venatici | +| M57 | Ring Nebula | [Lyra](./constellations.html#lyra) | You can download the complete list of [messier objects](#messier-objects) from [here](../../assets/docs/observation/night%20sky/deep%20sky%20objects/Messier%20Catalogue.pdf) diff --git a/observation/night sky/magnitudes.md b/observation/night sky/magnitudes.md index 18dec13..5f3f61d 100644 --- a/observation/night sky/magnitudes.md +++ b/observation/night sky/magnitudes.md @@ -9,15 +9,15 @@ nav_order: 1 ## Magnitudes
-[Magnitude](#magnitudes) is essentially a measure of the brightness of an object. It doesn't have any units of measurement. The lower the magnitude, the brighter the object. The magnitude scale is logarithmic in nature, i.e., a difference of 1 magnitude corresponds to a difference of ~2.5 times in brightness. +[Magnitude](#magnitudes) is essentially a measure of the brightness of an object. It doesn't have any units of measurement. The lower the [magnitude](#magnitudes), the brighter the object. The [magnitude](#magnitudes) scale is logarithmic in nature, i.e., a difference of 1 [magnitude](#magnitudes) corresponds to a difference of ~2.5 times in brightness. -The scale was originally invented by the Alexandrian astronomer, Ptolemy, where he classified the objects on a six-point scale. In the northern hemisphere, Vega is one of the brightest stars, earning itself a magnitude of 0. The other stars were classified with Vega as reference. +The scale was originally invented by the Alexandrian astronomer, Ptolemy, where he classified the objects on a six-point scale. In the northern hemisphere, Vega is one of the brightest stars, earning itself a [magnitude](#magnitudes) of 0. The other stars were classified with Vega as reference. More recently, the modern logarithmic magnitude scale was adopted and the Sun was placed at an [apparent magnitude](#apparent-magnitude) of approximately -27. The rest of the celestial bodies (and satellites like the ISS) followed suit. ### Apparent Magnitude -[Apparent magnitude](#apparent-magnitude) is the most widely used type of magnitude. If you have a reference object, whose magnitude is fixed (or known), the magnitude of any other object can be very easily calculated using the following formula: +[Apparent magnitude](#apparent-magnitude) is the most widely used type of [magnitude](#magnitudes). If you have a reference object, whose [magnitude](#magnitudes) is fixed (or known), the [magnitude](#magnitudes) of any other object can be very easily calculated using the following formula: $$ \begin{equation} diff --git a/theory/cosmology/index.md b/theory/cosmology/index.md index e9a6d36..02601f2 100644 --- a/theory/cosmology/index.md +++ b/theory/cosmology/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 6 --- ## Cosmology + +
+[Cosmology](#cosmology) is the scientific quest to comprehend the origin, evolution, and ultimate fate of the universe on its grandest scales. This captivating field delves into the structure, composition, and dynamics of the cosmos itself, exploring questions that transcend the boundaries of our terrestrial existence. From the Big Bang theory, which provides insights into the universe's birth and expansion, to the study of [dark matter](./dark%20matter.html) and [dark energy](./dark%20energy.html), [cosmology](#cosmology) unravels the mysteries shrouding the fundamental nature of space, time, and the cosmos. Through observational astronomy, theoretical models, and technological advancements, cosmologists strive to unveil the universe's past, present, and future, offering a profound perspective on our place in the grand cosmic tapestry. diff --git a/theory/energetic sources/index.md b/theory/energetic sources/index.md index 7d219c8..a3f9994 100644 --- a/theory/energetic sources/index.md +++ b/theory/energetic sources/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 5 --- ## Energetic Sources + +
+Across the cosmos, there exist awe-inspiring phenomena that emit immense amounts of energy, captivating astronomers and unveiling the extreme forces shaping the universe. [Energetic sources](#energetic-sources) encompass a wide array of celestial marvels, from [pulsars](../special%20stars/pulsars.html) and [quasars](./quasars.html) to [gamma-ray bursts](./GRBs.html) and [active galactic nuclei](./AGNs.html). These phenomena produce staggering amounts of energy, often outshining entire galaxies or releasing more energy in seconds than our Sun will emit in its entire lifetime. Exploring these cosmic powerhouses offers insights into the most extreme conditions in the universe, helping us understand the nature of [black holes](../special%20stars/black%20holes.html), the mechanisms behind colossal explosions, and the origin of high-energy particles that traverse space. diff --git a/theory/particle physics/cosmic rays.md b/theory/particle physics/cosmic rays.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..31c023c --- /dev/null +++ b/theory/particle physics/cosmic rays.md @@ -0,0 +1,9 @@ +--- +title: Cosmic Rays +layout: default +parent: Particle Physics +grand_parent: Theory +nav_order: 6 +--- + +## Cosmic Rays diff --git a/theory/particle physics/index.md b/theory/particle physics/index.md index c632ae4..2c69a16 100644 --- a/theory/particle physics/index.md +++ b/theory/particle physics/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 7 --- ## Astro Particle Physics + +
+This captivating field serves as an interdisciplinary bridge between astronomy and particle physics, exploring the high-energy particles and cosmic phenomena that originate from distant celestial sources. [Astro particle physics](#astro-particle-physics) investigates [cosmic rays](./cosmic%20rays.html), [neutrinos](./neutrinos.html), and high-energy photons originating from astrophysical phenomena like [supernovae](../energetic%20sources/supernovae.html), [black holes](../special%20stars/black%20holes.html), and [active galactic nuclei](../energetic%20sources/AGNs.html). By studying these particles and their interactions, scientists gain insights into the extreme environments and cosmic events that produce them. This fascinating field enables us to unravel the mysteries surrounding the universe's most energetic processes, shedding light on the universe's evolution, the nature of dark matter, and the high-energy universe. diff --git a/theory/particle physics/neutrinos.md b/theory/particle physics/neutrinos.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..34b891a --- /dev/null +++ b/theory/particle physics/neutrinos.md @@ -0,0 +1,9 @@ +--- +title: Neutrinos +layout: default +parent: Particle Physics +grand_parent: Theory +nav_order: 5 +--- + +## Neutrinos diff --git a/theory/solar physics/index.md b/theory/solar physics/index.md index 8965d1f..574366f 100644 --- a/theory/solar physics/index.md +++ b/theory/solar physics/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 8 --- ## Solar Physics + +
+At the heart of our solar system lies the Sun, a dynamic and captivating celestial body that influences life on Earth and shapes the cosmic environment around us. [Solar physics](#solar-physics) delves into the intricate processes occurring within the Sun, unveiling its magnetic fields, [solar flares](./flares.html), [coronal mass ejections](./CMEs.html), and the mesmerizing dance of solar prominences. Through the study of solar phenomena and solar cycles, scientists gain crucial insights into space weather, the solar influence on Earth's climate, and the underlying mechanisms driving solar activity. By utilizing advanced telescopes and space missions, solar physicists unravel the mysteries of the Sun, enhancing our understanding of its structure, behavior, and its profound impact on our technological infrastructure and the wider cosmos. diff --git a/theory/special stars/binary stars.md b/theory/special stars/binary stars.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..eefa31e --- /dev/null +++ b/theory/special stars/binary stars.md @@ -0,0 +1,9 @@ +--- +title: Binary Stars +layout: default +parent: Special Stars +grand_parent: Theory +nav_order: 5 +--- + +## Binary Stars diff --git a/theory/special stars/cepheid variable.md b/theory/special stars/cepheid variable.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..14c91ea --- /dev/null +++ b/theory/special stars/cepheid variable.md @@ -0,0 +1,9 @@ +--- +title: Cepheid Variable +layout: default +parent: Special Stars +grand_parent: Theory +nav_order: 6 +--- + +## Cepheid Variable Stars diff --git a/theory/special stars/index.md b/theory/special stars/index.md index bd1c530..8c065d8 100644 --- a/theory/special stars/index.md +++ b/theory/special stars/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 4 --- ## Special Stars + +
+Within the vast celestial expanse, certain stars captivate us with their extraordinary characteristics, behaviors, or historical significance. From pulsating variables like [Cepheid](./cepheid%20variable.html) and RR Lyrae stars, which serve as crucial distance indicators in measuring cosmic distances, to exotic objects like [neutron stars](./neutron%20stars.html) and [white dwarfs](./dwarf%20stars.html#white-dwarf) born from the remnants of [stellar evolution](../stellar%20physics/evolution.html), [special stars](#special-stars) encompass a diverse array of cosmic wonders. Exploring these unique stellar phenomena unveils the extremes of nature, from the intense gravitational fields of [black holes](./black%20holes.html) to the mesmerizing dance of [binary stars](./binary%20stars.html). By studying these [special stars](#special-stars), we gain a deeper understanding of the universe and the forces that shape it. diff --git a/theory/special stars/neutron stars.md b/theory/special stars/neutron stars.md index 7a1caff..39fbaed 100644 --- a/theory/special stars/neutron stars.md +++ b/theory/special stars/neutron stars.md @@ -7,3 +7,32 @@ nav_order: 2 --- ## Neutron Stars + +
+[Neutron stars](#neutron-stars) are the remnants of massive stars that have undergone [gravitational](../celestial%20mechanics/newtonian%20gravity.html) collapse, and are one of the two [evolutionary](../stellar%20physics/evolution.html) endpoints of most massive stars, the other being a [black hole](./black%20holes.html). + +### Formation + +As a star (of mass nearly 10 and 20 times that of the Sun) nears its death, their cores become mostly comprised of Iron. But since the core is so massive, the [gravitational](../celestial%20mechanics/newtonian%20gravity.html) pressure is so strong that it causes the core to collapse in on itself. The core collapses so quickly that the protons and electrons are forced together to form neutrons. The outer layers of the star are then thrown off in a massive explosion called a [supernova](../energetic%20sources/supernovae.html). The remaining core is then a [neutron star](#neutron-stars). + +Some massive cores are at this point saved from further collpase by a quantum phenomenon called _neutron degeneracy pressure_, which occurs when such a density is reached that neutrons can no longer be packed any closer together. The core then becomes a [neutron star](#neutron-stars). + +{: .quote } + +> "With neutron stars, we're seeing a combination of strong gravity, powerful magnetic and electric fields, and high velocities. They are laboratories for extreme physics and conditions that we cannot reproduce here on Earth." + +### Properties + +A [neutron star](#neutron-stars) isn't really a star. It's more like a giant atomic nucleus 8 - 16 $$km$$ across, made entirely of neutrons and can have masses of about twice that of the Sun, giving them an average density of about 10$$^14 g/cm^3$$. For reference, that about a trillion times that of the density of water. The total mass of a [neutron star](#neutron-stars) is around 1.1 to 2.2 times that of the Sun. + +{: .fun } + +> Since so much mass is stuffed into such a small sphere, a [neutron star](#neutron-stars) is very dense. A sugar cube-size lump would weigh about a billion tons, more than 10,000 aircraft carriers. + +On top of this, since the original star might be having a spin, it would need to conserve its angular momentum. Consequently, since the core implodes forming a [neutron star](#neutron-stars), its radius decreases rapidly and to a fraction of its original. This leads to a massive gain in the spin of [neutron stars](#neutron-stars). + +{: .fun } + +> The fastest rotating [neutron star](#neutron-stars) rotates at a rate of 43,000 RPM. This gives it a linear (tangential) speed at the surface to be equal to nearly a quarter the speed of light. + +The temperature inside a newly formed [neutron star](#neutron-stars) can be very high as well, reaching around 10$$^{11}$$ to 10$$^{12} K$$. But due to the huge number of neutrons that it emits, it looses so much of its energy that the temperature falls to 10$$^6 K$$ within a few years. At such a low temperature, the majority of the light generated by a [neutron star](#neutron-stars) falls in the X-ray region. diff --git a/theory/stellar physics/index.md b/theory/stellar physics/index.md index ea1b7d2..50d8585 100644 --- a/theory/stellar physics/index.md +++ b/theory/stellar physics/index.md @@ -7,3 +7,6 @@ nav_order: 3 --- ## Stellar Physics + +
+[Stellar physics](#stellar-physics) serves as the gateway to understanding the remarkable lives of stars, the celestial entities that illuminate the cosmos. This field explores the birth, [evolution](./evolution.html), and eventual fate of stars, unraveling their intricate behaviors and fundamental properties. From the nuclear fusion processes that fuel their brilliance to the diverse life cycles of stars based on their masses, compositions, and sizes, [stellar physics](#stellar-physics) reveals the secrets behind the light that fills our night sky. By delving into topics such as stellar formation, classification, and the breathtaking phenomena of [supernovae](../energetic%20sources/supernovae.html) and [black holes](../special%20stars/black%20holes.html), we gain insights into the immense forces shaping our universe.