Grassroots Astronomy (Abstract)

Volume 29 number 1 (2001)

Kevin B. Marvel

American Astronomical Society, Executive Office 2000 Florida Avenue, N. W. Suite 400 Washington, DC 20009

Abstract

(Abstract only) Congress has a large impact on the amount and quality of astronomical research that takes place in the United States. By funding NASA and NSF, as well as other agencies such as the Department of Education and the Department of Defense, the Federal Government enables U. S. astronomers to perform cutting edge research. However, Congress makes its decisions based on input from citizens. If the citizens are silent on an issue, Congress does not know it exists. Last summer the U. S. amateur community rallied in support of professional research, resulting in a healthy budget for both NASA and NSF astronomy research. I will present a summary of how the funding process works and how and why amateurs can and should help ensure continued research funding for U. S. astronomy.