Remote Observing Program

Following the outstanding success of 100 Hours of Remote Astronomy in April 2009 and continuing AWB remote observing programs, Global Astronomy Month 2010 (GAM2010) is introducing special remote observing programs throughout the month. Exciting activities using advanced, remotely-accessible observatories will include online guided cosmic shows, free personal remote observing sessions, and special discounts for observing time for those who want to do more. Discover the benefits of remote astronomy and enjoy the sky from the comfort of your own home!

Previous remote events organized and promoted by Astronomers Without Borders huge were successes, with thousands of participants from over 100 countries, bringing people together across borders. In GAM you'll find expanded programs that let you fly through the Solar System, cross the orbits of mysterious comets, encounter the rings of Saturn, and view the wonders of the Milky Way and beyond, all the while meeting people from around the world who are sharing the same sky.

Join us for an unforgettable experience right from your own home, as a telescope on the other side of the world turns it eye towards the sky… even if it’s cloudy in your area.

GAM offers two ways to enjoy remote observing: a) online, live events with real-time narration and b) personal observing through remotely controlled telescopes or images on demand.

a) Here is a sample of online live astronomical events with real-time narration:

• Online Messier Marathon: observe as many Messier objects as possible in one night.

• Is There Anybody Out There?: observe the transit of an extrasolar planet, showing its "fingerprint" in real time.

• Write Your Name in the Sky!: a chance to discover an asteroid! Images will be taken and shared in real time for participants to check for signs of asteroids. The winner will be recognized as the asteroid's co-discoverer!

• Across The Solar System: an opportunity to discover your place in the Universe on a guided tour among the planets.

• The Universe at Your Command: free personal observing sessions throughout Global Astronomy Month.

More events are being added all the time. See all the events currently scheduled in the Remote Observing Program.

b) Personal remote observing sessions and images on demand:

Have you ever controlled, in real time, a telescope thousands of miles away? Have you ever wanted an astronomical image of THAT object, and are you still hoping to get it? Would you like to image the Sun? Whatever you want, this is your moment! GAM is bringing to you the wonders and the power of remote astronomy. Several facilities are offering observing time and/or images on demand. Please check the table below and see which telescope fits your needs/times. All you need is an internet connection (broadband is recommended): the Universe has never been so close with GAM and remote observing!

Please contact the facility of interest if you have any questions about their systems and/or you want to use them for GAM.

New events and programs are being developed. All remote telescope facilities are invited to join the effort and share your facilities with the public during GAM.

Join in the Remote Observing Program's GAM2010 events and meet friends among the stars: One People, One Sky!

Co-chairs of the GAM Remote Observing Programs Working Group:

Gianluca Masi
Valentina Romeo