Contributions by Citizen Scientists to Astronomy (Abstract)

Volume 40 number 1 (2012)

Arne A. Henden

AAVSO Headquarters, 49 Bay State Road, Cambridge, MA 02138; arne@aavso.org

Abstract

(Abstract only) The AAVSO’s experience in utilizing the skills, equipment, and enthusiasm of amateur astronomers towards its research is not unique in astronomy. Citizen Scientists have contributed to our understanding of asteroids, exo-planets, solar system weather, light echoes, and galactic streaming, as well as inventing new equipment and software. This talk will highlight some of the recent advances by Citizen Scientists, and suggest some areas where they can contribute in the future.