Detecting Orbital Debris Using Albedo

The Albedo Experiment can be performed very simply with several sources of error to be expected or can be conducted in a more controlled effort with equipment that will allow students to focus on the data collected.  In either situation, the experiment provides students with a forum to collaborate their critical thinking to minimize any difficulties or unwanted variables that may effect their data.

You will need the following materials for the more controlled experiment:

• Computer with camera
  
• Access to the Kepler Light Grapher:  
  see Light Grapher below

An Albedo Detector Spinner (instructions and equipment found below in written and video form): The Detector Spinner is an excellent tool, but students may be able to design some other tool to allow their models to revolve in and out of the light source.)

• A light source - this may be a lamp, light bulb, the flashlight app on a device - it should be quite bright and intense
• A darkened room, or a darkened area behind the revolving model.
• A Model Albedo Target  to provide and albedo comparison to an Experimental Target. (This may be a model of an asteroid, a potato, or a multi-faceted home-made item that allows practical surfaces for differing light reflection - instructions for the Model Alabedo Target  is found below)
• Tape to hold the model in place as it moves
• Instructions for Using the Light Grapher Program
• The ability to save your Albedo Graph for printing or for reporting.

Denise Wright is allowing  EIS to use her tutorial video for use of the Light Grapher.  Denise uses the Kepler Light Grapher to model how scientists search for exoplanets. In her video, Denise uses a set-up for exoplanet modeling that does not require the use of the Spinner.  You may find this approach helpful.  Please view her video to understand how to use the Light Grapher.