Hello Students,
One of you sent me a question about the measurement of the moon’s orbital parameters. He asked if all three parameters needed to measured independently.
I did, sort of, answer his question and gave a hint. For fairness, I am putting it here.
1. As far as independently measuring the three primary orbital parameters, that was what I had in mind. I did not put it in the final version, because for this competition what matters is that you solve the problems better than your opponents — not just good enough for the judges. I am sure that if any of you did not measure them independently, your opponent would point this out.
2. And my hint: Plan well ahead of August 21st. If you happen to live anywhere on the North American continent, great! If not, I am sure you can find friends, family, or colleagues who could take data for you.
— JWK
USAYPT Problem Master 