I. Purpose

Project Jupiter has five sub-goals, each of which is worthy of the effort involved in completing this project, and each within the reach of American Association of Amateur Astronomers ("AAAA", a.k.a. "Quad-A") members.

A. Develop observer’s observing & logging skills

In completing this project the observer will need to schedule a series of observing sessions, and keep a reasonable (but not burdensome) record of the observations at location(s) of their choice. The scheduling will promote regular observing sessions. All of the methods used in this project will require that the observer keep records of what is observed, and develop good estimating of the spacings between objects.

B. Determine orbit period & compare to reference data

The orbit period of a satellite of Jupiter will be determined from the observer’s observation data. Their data will be processed remotely, using a method that will yield the best estimate of the orbital period. The orbital period will then be compared with available reference data from NASA and the percent difference to the observer’s results will be provided. The comparison is intended to promote critical thinking of how the observations could be changed to improve results.

C. Promote Quad-A & Observerving

Quad-A is a unique association of amateur astronomers. Members have differing skills, differing interests, each observes from a differing location, and each utilizes differing equipment. That diversity provides a rich Quad-A resource. The Quad-A members are linked together via e-mail and a quarterly newsletter. The dispersion of the observing sites and skills is a rich asset, as Quad-A members freely help other members. Project Jupiter is, in part, to promote Quad-A and the success of the local observer. This is accomplished by creating a press release of the individual member’s participation in Project Jupiter.

D. Determine mass of Jupiter & compare to reference data.

In Project Jupiter Kepler’s third law is utilized to determine the mass of the planet with which the satellite is orbiting. The observer’s data will be used to "weigh" Jupiter. A minimum of non-measured data is used in attaining this goal, illustrating the depth of information that can be derived from a set of observational data.

E. To expand personal horizons of Quad-A members.

By participating in Project Jupiter, many members will perform a project that may stretch their capabilities as previously envisioned. This is expected to lead to participation other challenging Quad-A projects.

F. The observer data will be used to determining other Jupiter characteristics

Additional horizons of Project Jupiter include determining the force of gravity on Jupiter, and the escape velocity (1) on Jupiter.

1. Escape Velocity is that velocity that an object needs to reach parabolic or hyperbolic orbit around its primary, which permits it to escape to infinity.