Your Scientific Imaging Program and How to Submit Your Data to Scientific Organizations

Abstract

In Chap. 2, there is a discussion about the Observing Program Design Basis (OPDB). That documented approach helps to solidify the Astronomical Imaging System (AIS) design requirements and guide the amateur astronomer in building the most cost-effective AIS to realize the observing program goals. Collecting, analyzing, and storing the data collected using the AIS is only the first step on the path toward making new discoveries. Sharing and comparing the data collected is the next step. The amateur astronomer needs to contribute the data collected so that it can be compiled with other data to make the discoveries and reach the conclusions necessary to develop new theories. Several professional and amateur organizations exist that welcome amateur data collected through professionally designed and operated amateur-level equipment. Each is geared toward specific object types and shares its data with all who want to use it.