Not every astronomer is drawn primarily to beautiful views or finished images. For some, the real excitement lies in what can be measured, compared, tracked, and learned from the night sky over time.

The Scientific Special Interest Group (SSIG) was created to give that curiosity a home.

SSIG focuses on scientific measurement, analysis, and broader astronomy topics driven by member interest. While this path overlaps with astrophotography in practical ways, its purpose is different. The goal is not simply to create a beautiful image—it’s to use observations, images, and data to ask meaningful questions and discover something new.

That might sound advanced, but SSIG is built to be welcoming, curious, and discussion-driven. You don’t need a technical background to participate—just an interest in exploring what the data behind the night sky can reveal.

What Is Scientific Astronomy?

In the amateur astronomy world, “scientific” work can take many forms. It might include:

Measuring changes in a star’s brightness over time
Tracking the motion of asteroids
Analyzing spectra to understand composition and temperature
Comparing observations across nights, months, or even years

The key shift is simple but powerful: moving from collecting a view to gathering information.

This approach blends science and technique. Capturing useful data often means learning about equipment, calibration, and consistency—but you don’t need advanced gear to get started. SSIG welcomes members at all experience levels.

Core Areas of Focus

Three main disciplines sit at the heart of SSIG’s work:

Photometry

Example of an eclipsing variable BF Aur which are two B5 stars eclipsing each other, validating the assumption that the minimum magnitudes would be similar when they eclipsed one another. The data is the result of over 600 images taken from light polluted skies.

Photometry is the measurement of brightness. This can include observing variable stars, tracking asteroid light curves, or studying how objects change over time through repeated measurements.

Spectroscopy

Spectrograph of the planet Uranus. Most prominent are the methane absorption lines, which are listed at CH4 or a molecular compound of four hydrogen atoms with a single carbon atom.

Spectroscopy involves capturing and analyzing the spectrum of light from an object. This allows astronomers to investigate composition, temperature, motion, and classification—unlocking information far beyond what an image alone can show.

Astrometry

The astrometric motion of the Sun. These positional measurements assume a bird’s eye view looking down onto the orbital plane of the solar system.

Astrometry focuses on precise measurements of position and motion. This can involve tracking stars, asteroids, and other celestial objects with accuracy over time.

Each of these areas rewards patience, consistency, and careful data handling—and together, they form the foundation of scientific work in amateur astronomy.

How SSIG Differs from Astrophotography

SSIG and astrophotography often use similar tools: telescopes, mounts, cameras, filters, and software. In some cases, specialized equipment like spectrographs may also come into play.

But the intent is different.

Astrophotography typically emphasizes image quality and visual impact. SSIG, on the other hand, is focused on extracting useful information from the data behind those images.

Both paths are valuable—and many members enjoy both—but SSIG exists to support a different kind of question: not just “How does it look?” but “What can we learn from it?”

Meetings and Community

SSIG is designed to be flexible and member-driven rather than rigidly structured.

Meetings: Once per month (in person or via Zoom)
Format: Guided by member interests, questions, and ongoing projects
Social gatherings: Informal brunch or lunch meetups for discussion and connection

This flexible format allows the group to evolve naturally based on what members want to explore, rather than following a fixed curriculum.

Learning and Getting Started

SSIG provides access to a wide range of resources related to photometry, spectroscopy, and other scientific pursuits. Members can share tutorials, presentations, and practical guidance.

If you’re new, the best first step isn’t buying equipment—it’s simply attending a meeting.

Listen to the conversations. See what questions are being asked. Notice what sparks your interest.

If you already have experience with cameras, tracking mounts, or image processing, SSIG can be a natural next step. If you’re just starting out, it’s a place to discover a whole new side of astronomy.

Citizen Science and Contribution

One of the most exciting aspects of scientific astronomy is the opportunity to contribute to real research.

Organizations like the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) collect observations from amateur astronomers around the world. Data gathered by individuals can support professional research and deepen our understanding of the universe.

For those who want their astronomy to go beyond personal enjoyment and become a form of contribution, SSIG opens that door.

Members interested in going further can also explore programs like the Astronomical League’s Spectroscopy Observing Program.

How to Get Involved

If you’re a member of DAS and interested in exploring the analytical side of astronomy, SSIG is ready to welcome you. Reach out via email: ssig@denverastro.org or Slack: #ssig-general

SSIG provides a space to ask questions, learn collaboratively, and engage with astronomy in a deeper, more scientific way.

Keep Looking Up

Whether you’re measuring the subtle dimming of a distant star, tracking the motion of an asteroid, or simply learning how data can reveal more than meets the eye, SSIG offers a new way to experience the night sky.