How NASA’s Citizen Scientists Are Shaping Exoplanet Research—And Their Careers
📷 Image source: assets.science.nasa.gov
NASA’s Exoplanet Watch program is proving that groundbreaking astronomical research isn’t reserved for professional scientists alone. By engaging citizen scientists worldwide, the initiative has not only advanced the study of distant planets but also transformed the career trajectories of its volunteers.
One such volunteer, Tom Jacobs, a former U.S. Navy officer, discovered four exoplanets through the program. His contributions earned him a co-author credit in a NASA-funded study, demonstrating how amateur astronomers can make meaningful impacts in astrophysics. Similarly, high school teacher Michaela Leung used data from Exoplanet Watch to develop classroom curricula, bridging the gap between research and education.
The program, which began in 2018, allows participants to analyze light curves from telescopes to detect exoplanet transits. Volunteers use accessible software to process data, often identifying anomalies that automated systems miss. According to NASA, over 1,000 volunteers have contributed, with some even transitioning into full-time STEM careers as a result of their involvement.
A recent study published in *The Astronomical Journal* highlighted the program’s success, noting that citizen scientists had helped confirm over 50 exoplanet candidates. This collaborative model is reshaping how research institutions approach public engagement, proving that curiosity and dedication can rival formal training in driving discovery.
For aspiring scientists, Exoplanet Watch offers more than just a hobby—it’s a launchpad. As NASA astrophysicist Rob Zellem, the program’s founder, puts it: 'When you give people the tools to explore the universe, they often surprise you with what they find.'
