| |
You are here: Experts > Science > Space and Astronomy for Kids > Astronomy > Global warming and astronomy
Astronomy - Global warming and astronomy
Expert: Ed - 10/23/2009
Question
Is "global warming" affecting the recreational astronomer? Do you have any images from the past to compare with images of today?
Answer
Matt,
I am really sorry that I am really late with this question. I forgot to tell AllExperts I was on vacation. My bad. I'm an idiot. I hope it doesn't matter to you, in terms of your grade point average, quality of life, etc.
First of all, you might want to look at this website:
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/science/recentac.html
As far as I can see, the main way that it might be affecting recreational, backyard astronomers is through changes in cloud cover. As weather patterns change, some people will find that the number of nights per year that they could go out in their backyard and have a good night of observing may be affected. This could be either a positive change or a negative change, depending upon where you live.
Also, in areas near what have long been ice-covered ground, it may be that the glare of reflected light from the moon may be diminishing at night. This, of course, would be because the ice has largely melted. This could have a measurable effect, depending, again, upon where you live.
I hope this gets you started. If you look at the link I provided, try to use your imagination and maybe you will think of some more ideas.
Keep Looking Up,
-ed
Add to this Answer Ask a Question
|
|
