NEON Astronomy & Asteroid Occultation Research Development Program:
The Northeast Occultation Network (NEON) exposes students to real world observational research by teaching them to operate telescopes, observe and capture astronomical data from asteroid occultations, and contribute to professional astronomy research under the training of astrophysicist Dr. Kevin Green of the University of New Haven and his experienced teaching assistants. The program progressively builds students from beginner telescope users to advanced observers who will work with our research team to collect, analyze, and submit research-grade data to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Student training primarily hosted at the Westport Observatory
182 Bayberry Ln, Westport, CT 06880
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