The American Association of Variable Star Observers, commonly known as AAVSO, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the observation, discovery, and study of variable stars. Founded in 1911, it is the world's leading organization of amateur and professional astronomers involved in the field of variable star observation.
AAVSO aims to facilitate and promote the collaboration and exchange of information among its members, primarily through the gathering and analysis of variable star observations. It maintains a vast international database that stores and archives observations made by its members and makes them readily available to the wider scientific community.
The organization also plays a pivotal role in supporting and guiding amateur astronomers in their efforts to contribute valuable observational data. AAVSO provides various resources, tools, and training programs to enable members to accurately measure and record the changes in brightness exhibited by variable stars.
Furthermore, AAVSO actively encourages participation in scientific research, organizing and coordinating large-scale observation campaigns to study specific types of variable stars or astronomical phenomena. It collaborates with professional astronomers and research institutions worldwide, contributing essential data to improve our understanding of these enigmatic celestial objects.
Overall, AAVSO serves as a vital platform for amateurs and professionals alike to engage in cutting-edge astronomical research and make significant contributions to the field of variable star science.
