This Project Jupiter document describes the methods used by the American Association of Amateur Astronomers (AAAA) using observations of any of Jupiter’s moons to derive their orbital period. From that derived orbital period, computations of the mass of Jupiter, the pull of gravity, and the escape velocity on Jupiter are accomplished. The methods used in Project Jupiter are general and to any planet with a moon. The methods outlined in the report are such that the AAAA members could use their existing equipment for this project and still attain reasonable results. One section of the report is devoted to a presentation based on the observations of Jupiter’s four primary moons by AAAA member Tim Tyler. That section also compares their results with NASA data values for the orbital period, mass of Jupiter,  etc. A suggested press release for a local newspaper is also provided.

Table of Contents

I. Purpose

II. Background

III. Orbits

IV. Period Determinations

V. Methods for Period Determination

A. Occultation Method

B. Maximum Extent Method

C. Fitting of Data Method

VI. Kepler’s Third Law

VII. Observing Suggestions

A. When to observe

B. How Often to Make Observations

VIII. Data Gathering Methods

A. Jupiter Diameter (JD) Method

B. Sketch Method

C. CCD/Astrophotography Method

D. Astrometric Eyepiece Method

IX. Data Processing

X. Observer’s Data Results

A. Assumptions

B. Orbit

C. The Weighing of Jupiter

D. Gravitational Force and Escape Velocity

XI. Other Contemporary Quad-A Results

XII. Conclusions

Attachment A: Data Sheet.

Attachment B: Processed Data Representation

Attachment C: Press Release

Attachment D: Weighing Jupiter, the Mathematics

Attachment E: Galileo Galilei Discovers Jupiter’s Moons

Attachment F: Practice JD estimating sessions

Attachment G: Earth-Jupiter Distance Effects