PURPOSE: To illustrate the orbits of stars in an eclipsing binary.
DESCRIPTION: The model consists of two spheres, each representing a star, which are mounted on the ends of a rod. The rod can be rotated, showing how eclipses can occur and at what period the orbital velocities of the stars can be found.
SUGGESTIONS:
REFERENCES: (PIRA 8B10.10)
EQUIPMENT: Spheres with crossarm on rotator assembly mounted on rolling stand with optical rail using optical holders.
SETUP TIME: 5 min.