Boy Scout Astronomy merit badge requirements, 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.
10. 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.


Compare that to any college graduate's knowledge of astronomy!
See http://home.fuse.net/astronomy/boyscout.html
Clear skies!
Larry Brown