Science with Small Telescopes

Amateur and professional astronomers are using small telescopes and modern instruments to conduct astronomical research in a variety of areas.

• The size, shape, and rotational state of asteroids are determined by occultations and lightcurves.
• Continuous monitoring of planets provides context between large-telescope and spacecraft observations.
• Lightcurves of eclipsing binary stars and astrometry of visual double stars contribute to assessment of stellar size and mass.
• Modest-resolution spectroscopy of transient objects can distinguish supernovae from imposters.
• Time-series photometry provides a wealth of data about variable stars.
• Long observing runs and exploratory projects that are impractical at large observatories can be pursued on small telescopes with astrometric, photometric, and spectroscopic capability.

What We Do

• Foster interest and participation in astronomical research by backyard and student astronomers
• Increase awareness of small-telescope capabilities and data to support the professional research community.
• Facilitate collaborations between professional and amateur astronomers.
• Encourage publication of relevant results.
• Provide a forum for networking, learning, and sharing experiences.

In 2019, the Symposium on Telescope Science celebrated its 38th year. This has become one of the premiere pro-am events with 100-150 participants giving papers, attending workshops, and networking with fellow researchers.

If you're interested in devoting even a little of your telescope time to astronomical research, the Society is the place to find others with a similar interest in unlocking the secrets of the Universe. Come join us!