Research Guides: Astronomy: Web Resources

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Associations

Professional Astronomy Associations

American Astronomical Society
The American Astronomical Society (AAS), is the major organization for professional astronomers and other professionals who deal with aspects of astronomy like physicists in North America.
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 46 US institutions and 4 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories for the National Science Foundation and NASA.
AAVSO
The AAVSO coordinates, evaluates, compiles, processes, publishes, and disseminates variable star observations to the astronomical community throughout the world.
IAU
Professional astronomers from all over the world belong to the International Astronomical Union.
USRA
(USRA) is an independent, nonprofit research corporation where the combined efforts of in-house talent and university-based expertise merge to advance space science and technology.

Use the CRAP Test

It is challenging to determine whether information from the Web is credible and can be trusted. Is it factual? Biased? Relevant to your topic?

Here is a handy acronym to help you determine if a source may be CRAP.

CURRENCY: How recently was this information published/posted? Can you find a publication date?
RELIABILITY: Is the information supported by evidence? Can it be confirmed by other sources?
AUTHORITY: Who wrote the information - are they an expert or knowledgeable in their field? (i.e. For health information, did a doctor or nurse write it?)
PURPOSE / POINT OF VIEW: Why was it written? To sell something? To sway opinion? Is it biased toward a particular point of view?

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Media Bias Chart

Objectivity is assessing to what degree does an author's bias affect how and what information is presented. A lack of objectivity can be problematic as the author may misrepresent/misinterpret information. An author's bias may also show itself in an omission of information of relevant or important information. Bias does not necessarily invalidate an author's work, but it should alert you that a counterargument source may need to be acquired to balance your research. Below are some questions to ask when determining the level of a source's objectivity or bias.

Does the information appear to be fact, opinion, or propaganda?
Is the author sufficiently objective and un-biased for your research needs?
If not, what are the biases or agenda of the author and could that source be utilized as a counterargument to another source?

Below is a graph which attempts to chart the type and degree of bias found in many major news outlets.