Exoss Citizen Science is a nonprofit organization based in Brazil. They depend on citizen scientists to monitor meteors, especially those visible in the southern sky.
The purpose of Exoss is to study meteors, where they come from, and the paths they take. By monitoring meteors, Exoss hopes to better understand what these fragments are made of and what happens when they enter Earth’s atmosphere.
History and Values
Exoss is a Brazilian nonprofit that brings together professional and amateur astronomers to study meteors.
The organization’s “citizen science” model emphasizes collaboration. Exoss believes that anyone can contribute to scientific discovery.
Exoss is also unique in its focus on the southern sky. This region is often overlooked by other meteor observation projects.
How EXOSS operates
EXOSS relies on a combination of camera networks, data collection, and scientific analysis to study meteors.
Meteor monitoring network
EXOSS uses a network of 50 active camera stations spread across eight states in Brazil. These cameras capture footage and data related to meteors.
This video monitoring system uses closed-circuit television (CCTV) along with specialized software.
Data analysis
Strategic camera placement is essential to get the parallax necessary for accurate trajectory calculations. The data collected helps EXOSS understand the radiant, velocity, height, and probable landing sites of meteors.
EXOSS uses this information, along with other scientific methods, to study the origins and orbital characteristics of meteors.
Projects, Partnerships, and Data Sharing
The EXOSS citizen science project is active in astronomy research and believes in sharing its data and tools with the public.
Collaborations
EXOSS works with the IMPACTON project and Brazil’s National Observatory on research efforts. The data collected by EXOSS helps astronomy organizations in both the public and private sectors.
Data Sharing and Tools
EXOSS shares data in real time on its website. Tools available on the EXOSS platform include “Live,” “Analyzer helper,” and “Report fireball.”
Anyone age 13 or older can participate in the EXOSS project. The site is available in English.
To Conclude
The Exoss project demonstrates the power of citizen science. By participating in research projects, anyone can contribute to our understanding of the universe.
If you’re an amateur astronomer, a student, a researcher, or simply someone interested in learning more about astronomy, consider supporting organizations like Exoss and getting involved in a citizen science project today.