STAR Atlas:PRO™ frequently asked questions - FAQs
Can I search for Variable Stars that exhibit particular brightness ranges and variability periods?
Yes you can. Star Atlas: PRO is very versatile in this way. Here is how you can do it: -
1. Open Star Atlas: PRO.
2. Click on [Chart Prefs] on the main menu.
3. Then select [Restore Defaults] (bottom right).
4. Click [Redraw]. This returns the view to the desktop.
5. Click on [Locate] on the main menu.
6. Click on [Stellar Objects] [53 � Hippacaros Periodic Variables] (centre bottom). This brings up the Hippacaros collection of Periodic Variable Stars.
7. Click on [List]. This produce a new menu which allows the viewer to select a range of options including brightness and variability periods.
8. For example click [Apply Magnitude Filter] (bottom left) and select [Maximum Magnitude] of [1.0] and [Minimum Magnitude] of [2.5].
9. Click on [Apply Filter Rules Now] (centre bottom).
10. This gives a list of a dozen or so stars in the chosen magnitude range.
11. Now click on [Apply Variability Period Filter] beneath [Apply Magnitude Filter].
12. Change the [Maximum Period] (in days) to [1.0] and the [Minimum Period] to [5.0].
13. Click on [Apply Variability Period Filter] and this leaves the viewer with a list of 1 or 2 stars.
14. Click on a star and then click [Select].
15. On the next menu select [Map] and the star you have chosen will be displayed.
16. You may need to change the [Field of View] to about [2] to see the star in any detail � see FAQ �When Should I use the Field of View Command?].
This is an example of how Star Atlas: Pro can make your viewing simple and understandable � we suggest you explore these filters to see what the program can do for you.