Space science has never been closer, thanks to hands-on space science and citizen astronomy projects. Together, they invite anyone, from students to amateur astronomers, to be a contributor to real discoveries, rather than a passive observer. Want to build models? Work with telescope data? Help scientists search for new worlds? There is a project out there calling your name. Here are ten great ways that you can participate!
1. NASA’s Backyard Worlds: Planet 9
Join in NASA's search for Planet-9 and any brown dwarfs nearby by partaking in the search of WISE mission images. Citizen scientists are the ones sourcing moving artefacts that the automated back-end pipelines might miss to make legitimate planetary discoveries. There is no need for any special tools, only a computer and curiosity. You could be the one who helps discover a new planet beyond Neptune!
2. Planet Hunters TESS
Help discover planets beyond our solar system, otherwise known as exoplanets, by looking through data from NASA's TESS mission. Volunteers look for small dips in the light from a star that might indicate a planet crossing in front of its star from our perspective. Your exploration can be part of discoveries of new planets light years away in other solar systems. Anyone with access to the internet can participate and aid us in learning about our universe.
3. Globe at Night
Monitor light pollution in your location by looking at the night sky and comparing it with star charts. It is an international project that assists scientists in monitoring the impact of artificial light on our observation of the stars and wildlife. It is easy to be of use to environmental science and astronomy, and you only need your eyes and a smartphone or computer.
4. Aurorasaurus
Share Northern and Southern Lights (aurora) sightings to assist scientists in better predicting aurorae. Online viewers or those using social media write down their observations in real-time for space weather research. Users are also informed when aurorae should be visible in their location, making it interactive and informative.
5. Radio JOVE
Construct your own radio telescope kit and observe radio emissions from Jupiter, the Sun, and the Milky Way. It is an enjoyable, hands-on experience for students and teachers that provides an excellent introduction to radio astronomy. Students can even discover how to connect distant telescopes on the web and pipe their results into current research.
6. Galaxy Zoo
Classify images of galaxies captured by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope and others. Classifying shapes and features in galaxy photographs makes astronomers more informed about galaxy development and evolution. You have no expertise, yet your contribution is a part of significant scientific research.
7. International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC)
Participate with school and community organizations globally to hunt asteroids with real telescope images. Students look through images to check if items are moving, protecting Earth from collision. The initiative is suitable for children and entails training, so teachers and high school students can participate.
8. JunoCam Community Science
Download and process raw images from NASA’s Juno spacecraft as it orbits Jupiter. Enthusiasts help create stunning images and even influence which features JunoCam photographs next. Your processed images may be featured by NASA, and you’ll learn about planetary science and image analysis along the way.
9. Cloudspotting on Mars
Help scientists map, assess, and recognize clouds in the Martian atmosphere by identifying clouds in NASA images from Mars missions. This task adds to knowledge about the climate and weather on Mars! All that's needed from volunteers is a smartphone or a computer, making this a great way to engage trainees in planetary science.
10. Build and Model Space Missions
You may attempt interactive science fair projects such as simulating gravity, constructing Mars orbiters or geostationary satellites using household materials. Every interactive project demonstrates a fundamental space science principle, including orbits, escape velocity, and planetary motion. A great choice for students wishing to conduct space science as interactive, hands-on projects in school or at home!
These missions and projects demonstrate that you don't need a PhD or even a telescope to become involved in space science, and with participation you will learn new skills, join an international community of citizen scientists and contribute to our knowledge of the universe in small steps!
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE Research helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!
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