The course of instruction for the Training Program is two-tiered. The first tier is known as the "Basic Level" and includes reading the ALPO's Novice Observers Handbook and mastering the fundamentals of observing. These fundamentals include performing simple calculations and understanding observing techniques. When the student has successfully demonstrated these skills, he or she can advance to the "Novice Level" for further training. Here, the student can specialize in one or more areas of study. This includes obtaining and reading handbooks for specific lunar and planetary subjects. The novice then continues to learn and refine observing techniques specific to his chosen area of study, and is assigned a tutor to monitor progress in the program. When the novice has mastered this final phase, he can then be certified to Observer Status for that particular field.

How long does it take to graduate from the Training Program? Most trainees complete training in just under a year. It should take no more that 18 months provided the trainee applies himself through constant participation with no long breaks between observation and correspondence. In order to expedite the process the coordinators try to answer trainee correspondence within three weeks of reception. So, the trainees actually control their own rate of progress.

The requirements for the training program are simple. ALPO membership is required. The cost of enrollment in the program, which includes the purchase of the Novice Observers Handbook, is $10.00. The handbook guides the trainee through the program and prepares him to make initial observations.

The trainee may need to purchase a modest number of art supplies costing from $3 to $5. ALPO observing manuals and aids for specialized observing may be needed for some types of work. These manuals cost between $5 to $20, and can be purchased from the coordinators.

Some reference books are highly recommended for the beginner who has not decided on a specialization. The coordinators of the Training Program recommend Introduction to Observing and Photographing the Solar System by Dobbins, Parker, and Capen, a concise and informative book on Solar System observing. It gives the student observer an introduction to the Moon, planets, and other Solar System phenomena. This book is published by Willmann-Bell, Inc. and sells for $24.95. It can be purchased from most astronomy booksellers.

The Astronomical Almanac for the current year is a desirable item. It supplies ephemeris data for all Solar System bodies, the Sun, the Moon, planets, and satellites. The Astronomical Almanac can be purchased from astronomy booksellers or from the Government Printing Office. It costs about $35.00. The Training Program will supply, free of charge, ALPO ephemeris data for any two solar system bodies a trainee plans to study while working in the program.

Equipment requirements for the Training Program really depend on the equipment you already own. The coordinators have included an information sheet entitled "What Can I Do With My Telescope?” It should give the prospective trainee an idea of the limitations, if any, that may be imposed by the size of their instruments.

Some types of observing have special demands. Most of the telescopic observing programs suggest the use of colored filters for visual observation of atmospheric effects. Occasionally we advise trainees to purchase eyepieces that offer higher powers for their telescopes. Quite frankly, it would be impossible to advise you on specific supplemental equipment that may be needed prior to your participation in the program. Our philosophy is not to pressure anyone in purchasing extra equipment. It is better to use existing equipment where possible.