FAQ
Announcement: New Forums
We are excited to announce the launch of our new forums! You can access itforums.aavso.org. For questions, please see ourblog post.The forums at aavso.org/forum have become read-only.
Announcement: New Applications
We are excited to announce the launch of our new applications! We're opening up early access to our new applications for searching, downloading, and submitting photometric observations. You can now access these applications through these links:
- • Global Data Search (new) – Search across all of AAVSO’s databases
- • Search and Download Photometric Observations – Search and export results in CSV, JSON, or XLSX
- • Submit Photometric Observations – Review your observations on a light curve with historical data
We ask for your feedback in order to help us improve these applications. Please send feedback for the applications above tofeedback@aavso.org. Note: please avoid duplicating submissions across the two submit applications.
How do I begin my involvement with the AAVSO?
Certain data and education is available to anyone on our website. To submit data, you need to create a free AAVSO website account and request an observer code (see below). Once you have a web account, you can also become a dues-paying member to access member-specific tools and other resources.
How do I register for an AAVSO website account and why should I?
To register for an AAVSO web account, please fill out theRegistration Form and check your email (check your spam folder too) to finish setting up your password and account. This will allow you to log in to the AAVSO website to submit data, posting to the forum, and subscribe to our email publications, among other things.
How do I request an observer code?
Once logged in, click "My account" at the top of any AAVSO web page, then click theprofile tab, then the "Request Observer Code" button. Initials will be automatically assigned to you. If you do not already have a website account, you will need to create one and then log in before requesting your initials (see "How do I register for an AAVSO website account and why should I?" above). If you have ever had an observer code (observer initials) in the past, please contact the AAVSO to recover your old initials instead of requesting new ones!
What are the benefits of becoming an AAVSO member?
By joining the AAVSO as a member, you will not only support the important work we do, but you will become a part of an ever-growing international organization dedicated to connecting citizen scientists with professionals and educators through variable stars. Additional benefits of membership are listedhere.
How do I become a member?
How do I contribute financially to the AAVSO to support its programs and work?
Information on Donations may be foundhere
How do I change my email address in my AAVSO account profile?
You cannot do this yourself. Please contact the AAVSO <aavso@aavso.org> to request a change.
How do I log out of the AAVSO website?
To log out of the AAVSO website, click on the icon to the right of "My Account" that looks like a door with an arrow pointing out of it.
How do I get started with variable star observing?
The best way to start is to download and read one of our freeobserving manuals depending on your interest and available equipment. We also offer a variety of online courses. Additionally, AAVSO members canrequest a mentor to help them along. AAVSO also partnered with Ball State University's Brown Planetarium, and the International Planetarium Society, to bring you afeatured variable star of the month. Each featured variable is presented with an interactive video, a star finder and comparison chart, and observation guide with tips for the beginner.
How do I find out what equipment I need to observe?
Information about equipment is included in eachobserving manual. You can also ask specific questions on our "Instrumentation and Equipment" forum.
What stars should I observe?
The answer to this question depends on the equipment you are using and your location. There are several resources available to help:
- For beginner visual observers: "10-star-tutorial" or the list ofeasy-to-observe stars.
- For beginner observers in the northern hemisphere, we have afeatured variable star of the month, complete with resources and tips for finding and observing it
- Forbinocular observers there is another list.
- TheAAVSO Target Tool can be used to find stars of interest that need observation.
- If you have a specific type of variable star you wish to observe, you may be able to find a list of interesting objects on one of theObserving Section pages.
- It can also be useful to observe stars that other people neglect.Here are some ideas.
- If you wish to take part in an observing campaign, you can subscribe toAAVSO Alert Notices.
How can I observe the Sun?
WITH GREAT CARE! Read all about safe solar observing in theSolar Observing Guide. Other useful information can be found on theSolar Section webpages.
Do I need to be an AAVSO member to submit data?
No, but you do need to have awebsite account and anAAVSO Observer Code. Both are free-of-charge.
How do I submit photometry or visual observations?
Photometric observations (visual, CCD, PEP, DSLR, CMOS) can be submitted either as individual observations or by uploading a properly formatted file, usingWebObs.
How do I submit exoplanet observations?
Observations of exoplanet transits can be submitted using theexoplanet data submission tool. For more information please check out thedocumentation.
How do I submit spectroscopy observations?
Spectra should be submitted usingAVSpec. Note that there is an observer validation process which you must complete before you submit the spectra of your choice. Further information and documentation can be foundhere.
How do I submit sunspot observations?
Sunspot observations should be submitted usingSunEntry.
How do I submit SID (Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance) observations?
To submit SID observations, contact theSolar Special Interest Group chair by email.
How do I refer to a star with a Greek letter in its name?
Read about how the AAVSO refers tostars with Greek letters in their names.
How do I edit or delete observations I have already submitted?
You are only able to edit observations submitted to the AID as other data are too complex. However, all submission tools provide a way for you to delete your data. For photometric observations of variable stars, log in to the AAVSO website and use WebObs Search to find, then fix or delete your data. Forexoplanet andspectroscopic data please see the corresponding documentation.
How can I tell if my observations are good?
Use theLight Curve Generator orVStar to view the light curve of a star you observed and highlight your data to see if they make sense relative to data submitted by others.
How can I download data for my research?
Use theData Download Tool to get a file of data for your research or plot a light curve using the Light Curve Generator orVStar.
I am a student looking for a project. Do you have any suggestions?
Ideas for student projects may be foundhere.
I am a researcher. How do I ask the AAVSO about an observing campaign in support of my research?
Please read aboutobserving campaigns. If you have questions, please contact the AAVSO <aavso@aavso.org>. To create an observing campaign request, log in to your AAVSO web account, go to theAAVSO observing campaigns app, click Create, and fill out and submit a campaign request.