You can join the global hunt for near-Earth asteroids

Space · Published 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Space exploration is no longer reserved for professional astronomers with multi-million dollar observatories. Through a collaborative citizen science project, anyone with a computer can analyze high-quality NASA data to identify moving objects in our solar system, potentially discovering new asteroids and helping to keep Earth safe.

The International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) serves as a bridge between professional astronomy and public participation. Launched in 2006, the project allows individuals and school teams to contribute to the discovery of near-Earth objects—small, irregular, rocky bodies that remain from the early formation of our solar system. By distributing fresh time-lapse images from telescopes in Hawaii and other locations, the IASC turns the search for celestial bodies into a distributed, global effort.

The methodology relies on a specific technique of identifying motion against a static background. Participants receive a data packet consisting of four images. Using a free, Windows-compatible software package called Astrometrica, users can "flip" between these images to spot objects that have moved across the field of stars. While the project is designed for beginners—requiring no prior knowledge and providing a two-hour tutorial—it also offers advanced tools for experienced image analysts.

This initiative highlights the growing importance of citizen science in modern research. By involving schools and communities, the project creates a scalable way to scan the sky for main belt asteroids, near-Earth objects, and trans-Neptunian objects. Participants who complete a month-long campaign and successfully identify moving objects can earn a certificate recognizing their contributions to the scientific community.

For those seeking a faster pace, the project notes the Daily Minor Planet project as an alternative for adults aged 18 and older. That specific project provides immediate access to fresh data from the Catalina Sky Survey, allowing thousands of people to participate in the ongoing search for minor planets simultaneously.

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