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
CURRENT OBSERVATIONS
Latest outbursts detected
June 17, 2017
AQLFO 170617.556 138 Stu.RASNZ outburst
CENV373 170617.563 138 Stu.RASNZ outburst
NORHP 170617.392 132 Stu.RASNZ outburst
PAVBD 170617.433 127 Stu.RASNZ outburst
PAVGS 170617.515 152 Stu.RASNZ outburst
SCOFQ 170617.398 128 Stu.RASNZ outburst
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.
Simostronomy: Rod Stubbings – Patience, Persistence and Purpose
The discovery story of OQ Carinae.
OQ Carinae : A New Southern Z Cam Type Dwarf Nova
My paper published on the first-ever standstill of OQ Carinae.
Eye on the sky
Amateur astronomers are making a unique contribution to science’s understanding of the universe, reports Marilyn Moore
Photo Chris Morley
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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