American Association of Variable Star Observers

The American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) is a nonprofit organization that involves both amateur and professional astronomers in monitoring and studying stars whose brightness changes over time, known as variable stars. Members observe these stars using telescopes or even the naked eye, record their brightness, and share data to aid scientific research. By pooling observations from around the world, the AAVSO helps improve understanding of stellar processes, augmenting professional astronomy efforts and fostering a global community dedicated to the diligent study of dynamic stars.