Whether you are just starting to get into CCD Photometry or you are an "old hand" looking to perfect your technique, there are two upcoming CHOICE courses you should consider taking:
CCD Photometry Part I - March 6 - 31 (Instructor: Ed Wiley)
This course will use the first half of the AAVSO Guide to CCD Photometry and will provide motivation and scientific background for doing photometry with a CCD. Topics covered include system testing and basic image calibrations from bias and dark frame subtraction to flat fielding. Students will need their own image processing software, and should have their own CCD/telescope ready to take calibration frames.
CCD Photometry Part II - April 3 - 28 (Instructor: Phil Sullivan)
This course will use the second half of the AAVSO Guide to CCD Photometry and will cover topics including optimal image photometry settings and techniques, and basic error estimation. We'll also discuss how to plan an observing run to optimize the scientific return of your observations.
Part I of this course is not a prerequisite, but is very strongly encouraged for new CCD photometrists. Students will need their own image processing software, and should have their own CCD/telescope ready to take science frames. Also, since students will determine the transforms for their own systems, photometric V and B filters will be necessary.
As with all AAVSO CHOICE courses, the cost is $30 for members and $50 for non-members.
To sign-up, please visit the AAVSO Store: https://www.aavso.org/aavso-store
More information about CHOICE courses in general can be found here: https://www.aavso.org/carolyn-hurless-online-institute-continuing-education-choice