Astronomy
Frequently Asked Questions
Gateway Remote Telescope
How is Gateway different from commercial data providers?
Gateway is operated by the AAA, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and doesn’t seek to make a profit on the subscriptions. We are interested in having the remote telescope resources in both hemispheres used by experienced astrophotographers as well as novices to the hobby.
Is Gateway suitable for beginners, students, or schools?
Gateway is suitable for any skill level. Novices can seek help in learning how to process the data. Students or schools are welcome to discuss projects that can be done with the telescopes.
Do I have to become a AAA member to subscribe?
Yes, you need to become an AAA member to join the Gateway project.
What happens after I sign up?
You will receive an email confirming your club membership (if you needed to join AAA) and your membership in Gateway. After that, you can log into aaa.org as a member, then you can access the Gateway Membership page. There will be links for the correct Gateway tier page.
How do I communicate with fellow GRT members?
Please sign up for Discord, the messaging app, as instructed on the Gateway members page. It is a very efficient way to message the group and ask or answer questions.
Can members collaborate on processing projects?
Yes, we encourage members to join with other members to collaborate on group processing efforts, especially those involving long integration times.
Can members propose targets or participate in planning?
Yes, on Discord, all Gateway members can propose targets for either the North or South rigs. Discuss any framing requests, exposure times, filters or other details with the telescope operators. Form groups with other members to participate in any planning and/or processing.
How often is new data added to the library?
We are adding new objects to the library several times a week. Monitor the Discord app to see announcements by the data management team on new additions.
Do you revisit targets to deepen integration over time?
We have revisited targets to add time. Let us know if you have a request to add integration time to an object currently in the Data Library.
Can I publish images created from Gateway data?
Yes, you may publish images created from Gateway data electronically or by making prints. You may also make and sell prints of your work. The raw data copyright is retained by AAA, you may control the copyright to your processed version.
Is attribution required?
Yes, we would prefer that you attribute the data to the AAA Gateway Remote Telescope and mention if it is GRT North or GRT South.
Can I combine Gateway data with my own data?
Yes, you may combine Gateway data with your own data sets. If you do publish the final image, please mention that some of the data is from the AAA Gateway Remote Telescope.