Astronomy Merit Badge

Astronomy and the Trail to Eagle

Astronomy Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 8 main requirements for Astronomy. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1. 1

   Do the following:

   1. a.Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in astronomy activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
   2. b.Explain first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur during observations.
   3. c.Describe the proper clothing and other precautions for safely making observations at night and in cold weather.
   4. d.Explain how to safely observe the Sun, objects near the Sun and solar eclipses.
2. 2

   Explain what light pollution is and how it and air pollution affect astronomy.

3. 3

   With the aid of diagrams or real telescopes, do the following:

   1. a.Explain why binoculars and telescopes are important astronomical tools.
   2. b.Describe the similarities and differences of several types of astronomical telescopes.
   3. c.Explain the purposes of three instruments used with astronomical telescopes.
   4. d.Describe the proper care and storage of telescopes and binoculars.
4. 4

   Do the following:

   1. a.Identify in the sky at least 10 constellations, at least four of which are in the zodiac.
   2. b.Identify in the sky at least eight conspicuous stars, five of which are of magnitude 1 or brighter.
   3. c.Make two sketches of the Big Dipper or Cassiopeia from direct observation.
   4. d.Explain what we see when we look at the Milky Way.
5. 5

   Do the following:

   1. a.List the names of the five most visible planets. Explain which ones can appear in phases.
   2. b.Find out when each of the five most visible planets will be observable in the evening sky during the next 12 months.
   3. c.Describe the motion of the planets across the sky.
   4. d.Observe a planet and describe what you saw.
6. 6

   Do the following:

   1. a.Sketch the face of the Moon and indicate five seas and five craters.
   2. b.Sketch the phase and position of the Moon for four nights within a one-week period.
   3. c.List the factors that keep the Moon in orbit around Earth.
   4. d.With the aid of diagrams, explain the relative positions of the Sun, Earth, and the Moon at eclipses and lunar phases.
7. 7

   Do the following:

   1. a.Describe the composition of the Sun, its relationship to other stars, and some effects of its radiation on Earth.
   2. b.Define sunspots and describe some of the effects they may have on solar radiation.
   3. c.Identify at least one red star, one blue star, and one yellow star. Explain the meaning of these colors.
8. 8

   With your counselor's approval and guidance, do ONE of the following:

   1. a.Visit a planetarium or astronomical observatory.
   2. b.Plan and participate in an observation session that includes at least 10 celestial objects.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Astronomy Merit Badge

Astronomy Merit Badge FAQ

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