How to obtain an astronomy merit badge - 1940

How times have changed! I dug out my Dad's old scout book. Here are the
requirements for obtaining a boy scout merit badge in 1940:

To obtain a Merit Badge for Astronomy, a Scout must:
1 Describe the characteristics and differences of the celestial
bodies including the sun, moon, planets, comets, meteors, stars,
nebulae, and galaxies.
2 Show that he has a clear understanding of the structure of the
universe by describing: (a) the relative position of the earth in the
solar system; (b) the relation of the solar system to the Milky Way
Galaxy; (c) the relation of the galaxy to other systems in the Universe.
3 Explain the actual and apparent movements of the earth, moon, sun,
and other planets.
4 Explain the causes of (a) the phases of the moon; (b) tides; (c)
solar and lunar eclipses; (d) the seasons; (e) leap year.
5 Know the differences between the following kinds of time; (a)
sidereal (startime); (b) solar; (c) apparent; (d) mean; (e) local; and
(f) standard.
6 Identify in the sky: (a) at least 8 first magnitude stars; (b) 15
principal constellations, including at least 4 in the zodiac. Be able to
find the North by means of other stars than Polaris.
7 Explain the differences between a planet and a star. Explain the
motions and characteristics by which each of the 5 naked-eye planets can
be positively identified at any time it is visible.
8 Make from personal observations, a carefully drawn map (at least
8.5 x 8.5 inches) of the north circumpolar region of the sky. Show the
principal stars in at least five constellations.
9 Construct at least one of the following: (a) sundial; (b) star
clock; (c) planisphere; (d) simple refracting telescope; (e) four-inch
telescope mirror; (f) simple telescope mounting.

In meeting the requirements, do more than merely follow the requirements
technically. Show that you have a real knowledge of the subject. As you
know, this knowledge should be practical rather than just
"book-learning", and a Scout is ready at any examination to answer
questions on previous tests given to him.

--
Larry Brown
http://www.antiquetelescopes.org
http://home.fuse.net/astronomy
.

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