Technical data

Chapter 4 Ephemeris 17
4. Ephemeris
The Ephemeris menu allows you to view the parameters of the ephemeral (changeable) objects in the Solar system.
The detailed parameters of each object can be viewed individually by selecting the object directly from the menu.
The values shown are a function of Autostar Suite's current time value and the precision that is set in the Starmap
menu. All values are calculated using the accepted rigorous methods. For the most accurate geocentric (Earth
centered) values, choose the High precision mode. By selecting the Topocentric precision mode, you will see the high
precision values that are also corrected for the current location and elevation.
NOTE: The accuracy of the minor planet database decreases as the time from the 'Epoch of Osculation' increases.
Autostar Suite is shipped with the most current data available at the time of packaging, but due to variations in the
supply of the product, you may receive data that is somewhat outdated. For normal applications the values are
acceptable for several years, but for extreme accuracy, the data may only suffice for several weeks or months. For
highly accurate applications contact Meade Instruments to obtain an updated database. Normally, the new data is
published every six months.
Moon Calendar
The Moon Calendar command displays the phases of the moon in a convenient calendar format. By default the
current mouth is displayed. To look at other months, you can use the Month and Year controls at the bottom of the
display. The calendar can also be printed on the default printer by selecting Print. When you are finished, select
Done, to dismiss the dialog.
Eclipse Calendars
The Eclipse Calendars command displays a world map of upcoming total and partial solar eclipsed. The map shows
the path of the eclipse across the Earth and the date when the eclipse will occur.
Show Current Values
The Show Current Values command displays the current values of the variables used in all of the Ephemerides.
Occasionally, you may want to calculate your own ephemeris, instead of deriving all of these values, you can simply
set the time and date to your requirements, then use these values.
All values used by Autostar Suite are derived by the rigorous methods as outlined in the Astronomical Almanac or in
Jean Meeus's book Astronomical Algorithms (see the bibliography). This assures exceedingly accurate and precise