ASTRO-C

ASTRONOMY COMPUTATIONS

ASTRO-C allows you to solve numerous computational problems in advanced astronomy. It is a powerful tool for amateurs and professional scientists, yet it is very easy to use. ASTRO-C is a library of menu selected programs that are compiled versions of spreadsheet templates. Having the "feel" of a spreadsheet, the programs facilitate "what if" calculations and unambiguous data entry, but without requiring a spreadsheet program to run. Standard graphical and tabular displays are provided. However, these can be customized by the user.

A comprehensive user's manual provides examples, detailed descriptions of the mathematical formulae and techniques used in all the calculations, and references. The programs are based on the algorithms and formulae in Meeus' "Astronomical Formulae for Calculators", Zombeck's "Handbook of Space Astronomy and Astrophysics" and the Nautical Almanac.

ASTRO-C Specifications

  • Julian Date and Heliocentric Julian Date conversion
  • Conversion between ephemeris and universal time
  • Calculation of mean and apparent sidereal time
  • Conversion between equatorial and horizon coordinates
  • Conversion between equatorial and ecliptic coordinates
  • Conversion between equatorial and galactic coordinates
  • Precession of coordinates from one epoch to another
  • Reduction to apparent place
  • Reduction to topocentric place
  • Calculation of angular separation
  • Calculation of the time of Moon phases
  • Calculation of the coordinates of the Sun for any instant
  • Calculation of planetary elements and positions for any instant
  • Calculation of an ephemeris for a visual binary star system
  • Calculation of the heliocentric radial velocity of an object
  • Calculation of the relative air mass between an observer and object
  • Calculation of the times of sunrise, sunset, and twilight
  • Calculation of the times of rising and setting of an object
  • Calculation of relativistic look-back time
  • Calculation and display of the visibility of a celestial object
  • Calculation of the positions of Jupiter's satellites for any instant
  • Absolute spectral and photon irradiance for any object
  • Planck radiation functions
  • Tabulation and display of mean star density
  • Tabulation of brightest stars
  • Conversion of physical constants
  • Tabulation of physical constants
  • Periodic table of the elements and element properties
  • Tabulation of astronomical constants
  • Linear least squares analysis of up to 100 data points
Minimum System Requirements:

IBM PC or compatible, DOS, one floppy drive (specify type).

PRICE: $65.00

This price includes the user's manual and shipping to all U.S. cities. All foreign orders add $10.00.

Send check, P.O., or money order to:

SCIENCE.wks
42 Fletcher Street
Winchester, MA 01890
e-mail: mvz@tiac.net

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