Exploring the night sky through a global network of telescopes—bringing remote observing to every AAVSO member
What We Do
AAVSOnet is a collection of telescopes located around the world, operated and maintained by a dedicated volunteer team of AAVSO members. These observatories support AAVSO members who wish to obtain calibrated astronomical images for scientific analysis and data submission to the AAVSO International Database (AID).
Through AAVSOnet, members can propose observations of specific targets. The network handles everything—from scheduling observations to capturing, calibrating, and delivering images directly to members for analysis.
How We Do It
Using AAVSOnet is simple. Members submit an observing proposal describing their targets, cadence, filters, and goals. The AAVSOnet team reviews each request and assigns it to one or more of our nine automated telescopes located at observatories around the world. Once the observations are complete, the system calibrates the images and delivers them to the requesting member for analysis.
All operations are fully automated, but behind the automation is a volunteer team ensuring that every observation meets AAVSO’s scientific standards.
Is It Right for Me?
Level: Intermediate. Users should have a working knowledge of photometry and data reduction techniques.
Equipment: None required—AAVSOnet provides the telescopes and imaging resources
Observing Requirements: Members must be able to define clear scientific goals and understand how to use the resulting data.
Additional Considerations: This resource is designed for members who have completed an AAVSO photometry course or equivalent self-study and wish to contribute calibrated observations to the AAVSO International Database.