The Mentor Program pairs novice AAVSO members with experienced observers who help teach observing techniques, tools, methods, etc., as well as give advice on target selection and interesting projects to pursue.
The Mentor Program is carried out entirely by volunteers who teach members who observe visually, or digitally (via CCD, CMOS or DSLR), how to do everything from printing comparison star charts, to reducing data and reporting their findings to the AAVSO.
Mentors may connect you with active AAVSO observers near you. More often, though, mentoring happens remotely via email, Zoom/Google Meet, and phone calls. From a simple chat to more hands-on training with an experienced observer, we aim to provide members with the feedback they need to continue progressing as AAVSO observers.
How to Connect with a Mentor
First: Become an AAVSO member.
To become a mentor, you must be an AAVSO member. Mentorship, both for mentors and mentees, is included in the annual dues that members pay. Membership dues help the AAVSO, a nonprofit organization, pursue its mission to provide amateur astronomers and students with the opportunity to make real and direct contributions to astronomy. (Click for a full list of member benefits).
Then: contact the AAVSO with the following information:
- What kind of observing you are interested in: Visual? CCD? CMOS? DSLR?
- Previous observing experience
- Your equipment (if any)
- The city, state/province/region, and country in which you live
- Any other pertinent information
Participation Policy
By participating in any AAVSO activity, you agree to abide by our Non-Discrimination and Non-Harassment Policy. Your participation indicates that you have read, understood, and accepted these guidelines.