Project Overview
Be an Asteroid Discoverer is a hands-on citizen science astronomy program conducted through the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC). Students analyze real telescope images from professional observatories to search for asteroids, near-Earth objects (NEOs), and other moving objects in space. Participants contribute to real planetary defense and astronomical discovery efforts.
Learning Outcomes
- Understanding asteroid detection and planetary defense
- Exposure to professional astronomical research methods
- Development of image-analysis and observation skills
- Introduction to telescope data processing and astrometry
- STEM and astronomy career awareness
Student Activities
- Analyze real astronomical image datasets
- Detect moving objects in telescope images
- Identify asteroid candidates and near-Earth objects
- Use asteroid detection software tools
- Submit findings for scientific verification
Eligibility
- • Middle school to high school students
- • Beginner to intermediate participation level
- • Suitable for schools, astronomy clubs, and STEM programs
Program Duration
- • Month-long asteroid search campaigns
- • Flexible participation schedules
- • Suitable for workshops and long-term astronomy programs
Participation Process
1
School/student registration
2
Orientation and training sessions
3
Access to telescope image datasets
4
Students analyze images using Astrometrica software
5
Reports submitted for scientific review and verification
6
Participants receive image sets and use Astrometrica software to search for moving objects in space.
Resources Provided
- Professional telescope image datasets
- Astrometrica asteroid detection software
- Observation tutorials and training materials
- Research guidance resources
- Participation support materials
Deliverables / Outputs
- Asteroid detection reports
- Near-Earth object observations
- Student participation records
- Astronomy research activity summaries
Recognition & Certification
- Participation certificates
- Opportunity for asteroid discovery recognition
- Exposure to international astronomy research campaigns
- Possibility of contributing to officially cataloged discoveries
- IASC participants have contributed to thousands of asteroid detections and discoveries worldwide.
School Benefits
- Introduces real scientific research into classrooms
- Enhances STEM and analytical learning skills
- Encourages teamwork, curiosity, and innovation
- Strengthens astronomy and space science education programs
Spaceadhyaan Support
Asteroid search training sessions
Student onboarding and mentorship
Software and observation guidance
School campaign coordination
Your Name Among the Stars: Discover a Real Asteroid
Join an elite group of student discoverers. Analyze professional telescope data and contribute to planetary defense in official IASC search campaigns.