Variable Star Outreach: Real-time Photometry and Spectroscopy Demonstrations - Lecture 1

Explore two engaging presentations on variable star outreach in this 1 hour 37 minute webinar from AAVSO HQ. Learn about demonstrating real-time photometry to the public with Gary Hawkins, who shares his experience from the Julian StarFest. Discover the equipment and software used to create live light curve plots of W UMa variable V796 Cep, captivating audiences with the concept of closely orbiting binary stars. Then, delve into spectroscopy outreach with Patrick Kavanagh's introductory course, covering the history of spectroscopy, spectral classes, and hands-on techniques using a diffraction grating with a DSLR camera. Gain insights from these experienced astronomers on effective ways to engage the public and astronomy club members in the fascinating world of variable star observation and analysis.