Introducing NEON

Hands-on astronomy training for students interested in real observational research. Participants learn to operate telescopes, observe and capture astronomical data from asteroid occultations, and contribute to professional astronomy research under the training of WAS board member and astrophysicist Dr. Kevin Green of the University of New Haven. The program builds skills progressively from beginner telescope users to advanced observers working with our team to collect, analyze, and submit research-grade data to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

I: Introductory Remote Telescope Operation

• Core operational skills, including optical and mechanical setup, understanding celestial coordinates, and using software for general object finding

II: Intermediate Remote Telescope Operation

• Transitioning from visual observation to astroimaging, teaching camera control, image acquisition techniques, and precise tracking of smaller, non-sidereal objects like asteroids

III: Advanced Remote Telescope Operation: Asteroid Occultations

• Specializing in high-precision, time-sensitive observation by mastering the techniques required to successfully observe and record asteroid occultations and contribute meaningful data to the astronomical community

Course I

• 4 sessions, 2 hours each
• Target start date: Monday, January 26 , 6pm – 8pm
• $200/person + telescope rental fee ($100)

Course II

• 5 sessions, 2 hours each
• Signup not open yet
• $300/person + telescope rental fee ($100)

Course III

• 6+ sessions, 2 hours each
• Signup not open yet
• $800/person + telescope rental fee ($100)