When do large bodies become round? (Beginner)

Measuring the diameters and shapes of moons and asteroids to find out when objects in space become round like planets. Have a look at one of the online guides to solar system objects. Some of these, such as The Nine Planets, have an archive of planetary satellite dimensions and accompanying pictures. From the pictures, classify the satellites and asteroids according to how round they are, and compare this against their average diameter. Determine what the minimum size seems to be where objects become spherical. You need to invent a number which indicates the 'roundness' of an object, and then compare it to the average diameter of the object.

Light pollution. (Beginner)

Determine the affect of light pollution in your area by using a star chart, a pair of binoculars, and noting the faintest star you can see from various locations in your town, and at various distances from it out into the countryside. What would you recommend to the City Council to improve your view of the sky? What is the most serious contributor to your local problem? Visit the web site of the 'International Dark Sky Association' to get background information and satellite images showing what North America looks like at night of from your location!