Deep-Sky Explorer Badge Program
Bronze Badge
Objective:
Lay the groundwork for observational skills by identifying and logging a modest but diverse set of DSOs.
Requirements:
- Observe and log 15 distinct DSOs.
- Include at least 3 different observation categories(categories are listed below)
- Use any equipment - binoculars, small telescopes, or even the naked eye.
- Record essential information: object name, date, time, equipment, and basic atmospheric conditions.
Recognition:
Awarded a Bronze Badge.
Silver Badge
Objective:
Push beyond casual stargazing by expanding your catalog and refining your observational notes.
Requirements:
- Observe and log 50 DSOs.
- Cover at least 5 different categories.
- Include at least 5 Messier objects and 5 non-Messier objects.
- Show an understanding of each object’s characteristics(brightness, size, structure) in your log.
Recognition:
Awarded a Silver Badge and featured on the club website as a “Certified DSO Enthusiast”.
Gold Badge
Objective:
Demonstrate advanced field skills and consistent dedication to deep-sky observation across seasons and object types.
Requirements:
- Observe and log 100 DSOs.
- Must include:
- 25 Messier objects
- 25 non-Messier objects
- At least 7 different object categories.
- Show awareness of sky conditions and object visibility challenges in your log.
- Participation in at least 2 group observation sessions to encourage community learning.
Recognition:
Awarded a Gold Badge and featured on the club website. Given priority for events or workshops.
Platinum Badge
Objective:
Achieve mastery in DSO hunting, observation logging, and analysis, even under challenging conditions.
Requirements:
- Observe and log 150+ DSOs.
- Must include:
- At least 30 Messier objects.
- At least 30 non-Messier objects.
- 5 faint DSOs with a visual magnitude > 12.
- Submit detailed logs that include sky conditions, observing techniques, and equipment notes.
- Participate in at least one outreach event or mentorship program to pass on your knowledge.
Recognition:
Awarded a Platinum Badge, and featured on the club website. Eligible to join the badge program review committee or create your own DSO challenge for members.
Other Challenges
- The Messier Mastery Badge: Log all 110 Messier objects.
- The Herschel Hunter Award: Log 400 Herschel objects.
- Extreme Conditions Badge: Observe and log 30 DSOs under Chennai skies.
- Southern Sky Specialist: Observe 25 DSOs from the Southern Hemisphere constellations.
Observation Categories
- Open Clusters
- Globular Clusters
- Emission Nebulae
- Reflection Nebulae
- Planetary Nebulae
- Galaxies
- Galaxy Clusters
- Supernova Remnants
- Dark Nebulae
Observation logs should be posted under this category.
Currently, the logs will be reviewed by either me or @vijay. We will be adding more people to the review program soon.