The Future of Visual Observations in Variable Star Research: 2015 and Beyond (Abstract)

Volume 43 number 1 (2015)

Mike Simonsen

AAVSO Headquarters, 49 Bay State Road, Cambridge, MA 02138; mikesimonsen@aavso.org

Abstract

(Abstract only) In this paper we examine the strengths and weaknesses of visual observations in variable star research and outline areas where visual observers can still make a contribution to science. We also examine reasons for continuing to support visual observers’ participation in the AAVSO for decades to come.