Determining the atmospheric extinction coefficient at Permata Pintar observatory using DSLR photometry

Abstract

This is a preliminary study in determining the atmospheric extinction coefficient (k) at Pusat PERMATApintar??? Negara Observatory. The research derives the value of the coefficient by photometry using a 200D Canon DSLR Camera and Celestron NexStar Evolution 6 Telescope. Every stellar image taken was reduced before analyzed by the Salsa.! application to obtain an intensity value. Then, mean intensity of stellar images at different airmass is calculated and inserted into the formula J = Joe-leX to determine the value of the atmospheric extinction coefficient. The study turns up inconclusive as the data collected may have been affected by errors. The study has to be repeated with more precaution steps to minimize error in order to gain more decisive result. The significance of this study is it provides a clear guideline on the methodology and possible sources of inaccuracies in determining atmospheric extinction coefficient at an observatory.