The 4-Point backyard diurnal parallax method

With this observational, hands-on activity, students can measure the distance of a selected asteroid within an accuracy of 5% in just 2 observational nights, using a telescope, online software and some modest amateur gear. Students will learn that an astronomical observational project requires research, planning and execution and most likely, they will understand that astronomy is one of the few areas where scientific knowledge contribution is still within the reach of serious amateurs.