Video Cassette

The HOA video cassette is divided into three segments, each of which is about 15 minutes long. They are titled "Backyard Astronomy", "Variable Stars", and "How To Observe Variable Stars." The videos can be used by teachers or students as introductory material for the curriculum.

These three videos introduce you to the wonders of backyard astronomy and the observation and study of variable stars. After a short introduction of three teachers talking, students Mary and Chris attend a "Star Party" where they meet other amateur astronomers. Mary also introduces Chris to the fundamentals of astronomy and variable star observing; and they visit AAVSO Headquarters to see how their observations are being used by the scientific community. The videos include graphical and animated demonstrations, and lots of commentary by amateur and professional astronomers on the enjoyment and scientific value to be found in making observations of variable stars.