SS-AT--A Remote Telescope for Pretty Pictures, Science Projects, and Real Research (Abstract)

Volume 34 number 2 (2006)

Barry B. Beaman

Abstract

(Abstract only) ISS-AT, the International Space Station—Amateur Telescope, is being planned to provide amateur astronomers and students a space-borne platform for imaging for whatever purpose. The ISS-AT Alpha Scope has been established in Arizona and is remotely operated from Dyer Observatory in Nashville to prove the concept of operation for the proposed space telescope. A significant block of time on the Alpha Scope is being offered to AAVSO to help prove to NASA that amateur astronomers are capable of doing real astronomical research from space.