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HELLENIC
SUPERNOVA SEARCH TEAM
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Supernova search is a field in which many amateur astronomers are drastically involved the past few years. Technology and evolution of CCD cameras, telescopes and special software, provides the ability to amateur observatories to have an active and fruitful participation in the search for these dying stars. Dying stars which erupt with a tremendous force, and for a brief period outshine their own host galaxy. The scientific value of this kind of search lies in the fact that supernovae provide information about how the Universe was formed, how stars evolve and how the Universe is expanding. Supernova search is mostly active in the US and England which have organised amateur groups dedicated to this task. In Greece until recently, there has not been any effort toward this kind of observations. The only known amateur astronomer, who is involved seriously, is Konstantinos Emmanouilidis,a member of Friends of Astronomy Club of Thessaloniki. His observation campaign was presented to the public during
the 3rd Panhellenic Convention of Amateur Astronomy (October 2003, Halkidiki),
and drew the attention of amateur and professional astronomers. December
2004 marks the formation of the first Hellenic Supernova Search Team.
Based at the private amateur observatory of Mr. Emmanouilidis, which hosts
a 12 inch Meade SCT telescope, a CCD camera and a fast internet connection,
which gives the opportunity to the members of the group from Thessaloniki
and other regions of Greece (Athens, Skiathos, Crete) to connect and work
together, begins the first ambitious effort of supernova search in Greece.
Amateur astronomer who participate in this group are: There has been also interest from amateurs from Athens and Crete. It is safe to say that very soon this group will expand in other regions of Greece, joining other observatories and amateurs in this kind of search, which will lift amateur Astronomy in Greece at "astronomical heights" www.amateur-astronomy.gr is the team's dedicated page |