Project Overview
The International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) is a global citizen science astronomy program where students analyze real astronomical data to discover asteroids and near-Earth objects (NEOs). Participants work with telescope images from professional observatories and contribute to ongoing planetary defense and space research efforts.
Learning Outcomes
- Understanding asteroid detection and space observation methods
- Exposure to real astronomical research and planetary defense studies
- Development of analytical and image-analysis skills
- Introduction to observational astronomy techniques
- STEM and astronomy career awareness
Student Activities
- Analyze real telescope image datasets
- Search for moving objects and asteroid candidates
- Identify near-Earth objects (NEOs)
- Participate in astronomical image analysis sessions
- Submit findings to the IASC research platform
Eligibility
- • Middle school to high school students
- • Beginner to intermediate participation level
- • Suitable for schools, astronomy clubs, and STEM programs
Program Duration
- • Campaign-based participation
- • Typically conducted over multiple observation sessions
- • Suitable for workshops and long-term astronomy programs
Participation Process
1
School/student registration
2
Orientation to asteroid search methods
3
Access to telescope image datasets and software tools
4
Students analyze images and identify possible asteroids
5
Findings submitted for scientific review
Resources Provided
- Professional telescope image datasets
- Asteroid search software tools
- Observation tutorials and training materials
- Research guidance resources
- Participation support materials
Deliverables / Outputs
- Asteroid detection reports
- Near-Earth object identification submissions
- Student participation records
- Astronomy observation and analysis summaries
Recognition & Certification
- Participation certificates
- Exposure to international asteroid search campaigns
- Opportunity for provisional asteroid discovery recognition
- Contribution to real planetary defense research
School Benefits
- Introduces practical space research into education
- Enhances STEM and astronomy learning
- Encourages analytical thinking and scientific exploration
- Strengthens innovation and research-driven academic culture
Spaceadhyaan Support
Asteroid search training sessions
Student onboarding and mentorship
Observation and software guidance
School campaign coordination
Let Students Discover Real Asteroids and Near-Earth Objects
Enable students to participate in global asteroid search campaigns and contribute to real astronomical discoveries through the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC)