Within this Section, we aim to foster an interest in spectroscopy from your backyard. Whether you are a beginner or a skilled observer, or if you seek to make genuine scientific contributions, there is something here for you.

Moving forward, it is expected that enthusiasts will apply the knowledge and skills acquired here to further their understanding of the subject and, when ready, begin contributing to science. The steps to follow are:

1. Understanding spectroscopy theory
2. Purchasing a transmission blazed grating
3. Setting up a telescope and DSLR or astro camera
4. Configuring a tracking telescope setup
5. Practising taking spectra repeatedly using easy-to-analyse A-type stars
6. Downloading the software for analysing spectra
7. Practising and becoming proficient with the software
8. Progressing to more advanced projects

Remember, practice and understanding are key to mastering this subject.

References

Books

• Spectroscopy: The Key to the Stars – Keith Robinson
• Astronomical Spectroscopy for Amateurs – Ken M. Harrison
• Astronomical Spectrography for Amateurs – EAS Publication Series – J.P. Rozelot, C. Neiner
• Spectroscopic Atlas for Amateur Astronomers (Version 5.0 04/2014) – No longer free; purchase online through Cambridge University Press. Version 4 may still be available for free download.

Software

• Tom Field – RSpec – Most preferred. Software comes with video tutorials. http://www.rspec-astro.com
• BASS Project (Basic Astronomical Spectroscopy Software by John Paraskeva – Second choice.
• Visual Spec – http://www.astrosurf.com/vdesnoux
• Christian Buil – http://www.astrosurf.com/buil

Gratings

• Rainbow Optics: manufacturer of the Star Spectroscope 200 l/mm grating – http://www.starspectroscope.com/
• Paton Hawksley Star Analyser 100 (SA-100) – http://www.rspec-astro.com/star-analyser/

Groups

• • Robin Leadbeater – THREE HILLS OBSERVATORY – (Formerly “ROBIN’S ASTRONOMY PAGE”) http://www.threehillsobservatory.co.uk/astro/astro.htm
  • A Good List of Links http://www.stargazing.net/david/spectroscopy/links.html

Suggested links to advanced slit type, high resolution spectroscopes

• Commercial – DADOS SLIT SPECTROGRAPH http://www.baader-planetarium.com/en/spectroscopy/dados-slit-spectrograph.html
• Make your own – LOWSPEC https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2455390

The above list is certainly not exhaustive and there are many other excellent resources that will enhance your understanding of this fascinating aspect of amateur astronomy. The internet also has a vast amount of information on the subject at every level.

Additional reading and information prepared by Percy Jacobs

• Training info – “PASSA Amateur Spectro PMJ Oct 2016” PASSA Amateur Spectro PMJ Oct 2016
• Taking and analysing spectra – “PASSA Amateur Spectroscopy the how” PASSA Amateur Spectroscopy the how1
• Basics of spectroscopy and some info on equipment – “Scopex 2017” Scopex 2017