Welcome to my
Variable Star Pages
22″ Telescope “Infinity”
The science of Astronomy is unique. A great deal of astronomical research depends on the work of highly skilled amateur astronomers that provide a pivotal role in the constant monitoring of variable stars.
I observe and monitor variable stars particularly the cataclysmic (explosive ) variable stars (CVs) for outbursts. Recorded observations are then sent to various variable star organizations which include, the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO), the research section of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand, Variable Stars South (VSS) and the Variable Star Network (VSNET) a global professional-amateur network of researches in variable stars.
These pages tell my story, show a selection of light curves, links to articles, dramatic events, transient objects and cataclysmic variables (CVs).
The current observations page will show my latest observations, outbursts detections and activity on variable stars.
Eclipsing Symbiotic System
Latest outbursts detected
July 6, 2018
AQLFO 180706.530 137 outburst
AQRQU 180706.529 156 outburst
AQRVZ 180706.528 132 outburst
CENNN 180706.545 155 outburst
CENV442 180706.481 132 outburst
HYIVW 180706.483 100 outburst
SGRV1089 180706.503 146 outburst
The XMM-Newton space observatory will be observing the dwarf nova GW Librae on Aug.31 / Sept.1, 2017. 
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) needs constant updates on the current state of GW Lib to make sure it is at minimum. My latest observation sent at magnitude 16.5 shows it is around minimum.
GW Lib was discovered in 1983 as a 9th magnitude object. On April 12, 2007 I noticed GW Lib was rising to outburst, the first recorded outburst in 24 years since the discovery! GW Lib has had no further outbursts. My visual light curve of the 2007 outburst which lasted over 70 days. More here.
Observation of a Deep Visual “Eclipse” in the WC9-Type Wolf-Rayet Star, WR 76
My paper was published with Peredur Williams, Institute for Astronomy, Royal Observatory, Edinburgh on ” Observation of a Deep Visual “Eclipse” in the WC9-Type Wolf-Rayet Star, WR 76 ” One of the deepest found so far in these types of stars. A real challenge visually as the eclipse is well below 17.0 magnitude.
UY Puppis – A New Anomalous Z Cam Type Dwarf Nova
My paper was published October 2016 with Mike Simonsen on UY Puppis – A New Anomalous Z Cam Type Dwarf Nova. UY Pup is now one of only four known anomalous Z Cam stars!
Wolf-Rayet Star, WR 53
My paper published on the discovery of the first ever recorded eclipse in the Wolf-Rayet star WR 53. After 5 years of constant monitoring we now have a new variable star!
Wolf-Rayet Star WR 53 – Added to the International Variable Star Index July 2015.
OQ Carinae : A New Southern Z Cam Type Dwarf Nova
My paper published on the first-ever standstill of OQ Carinae after 14 years of study.
Discovery story on OQ Carinae!
OQ Carinae: Rod Stubbings – Patience, Persistence and Purpose
100th year Anniversary of the AAVSO Top Visual Observers 2009-2010
Eye on the sky
Amateur astronomers are making a unique contribution to science’s understanding of the universe, reports Marilyn Moore
Photo Chris Morley
iPhone Moon Snaps
https://www.aavso.org/
G’day Rod!
I have now decided to add WW Cet to my programme. I like the ‘southern challenge’ and currently do a few stars in Puppis and southern CMa.
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Hi Michael,
WW Cet used to have outbursts up to 10.9 but have not seen it this bright for many years now. There are plenty of variables in the Southern sky’s to look at but not many active observers so keep up with the challenge!
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Congratulations on your 200,000 visual observation milestone.
Absolutely fantastic!
Cheers from Portugal
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Thanks Diogo
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Hi Rod,
Very nice website. I’ve just added a link to it from my own.
WW Cet is interesting. -11d too low for me though. Bang in the middle of the ‘orange glow’ from Birmingham city centre. Too bad.
Clear skies,
Gary
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Thanks Gary. I haven’t added a links page on my site yet, but when I do your site will be on there.
Yes, it will be interesting to see how WW Cet behaves for the rest of the 2010 season!
Cheers,
Rod.
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Sensational website Rod! Well done!
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