virtual observatory

virtual observatory a collection of integrated astronomical data archives and software tools that utilize computer networks to create an environment in which research can be conducted. Several countries have initiated national virtual observatory programs that will combine existing databases from ground-based and orbiting observatories and make them easily accessible to researchers. As a result, data from all the world's major observatories will be available to all users and to the public. This is significant not only because of the immense volume of astronomical data but also because the data on stars and galaxies has been compiled from observations in a variety of wavelengths—optical, radio, infrared, gamma ray, X-ray and more. Each wavelength can provide different information about a celestial event or object, but also requires a special expertise to interpret. In a virtual observatory environment, all of this data is integrated so that it can be synthesized and used in a given study.

Virtual Observatory A large astronomical database and associated software, which is accessed remotely. The downloading and analysis of the huge volumes of data currently produced by modern telescopes is becoming increasingly impractical. In the Virtual Observatory, the data analysis is performed remotely at the same location as the data are stored, with just the final results being transmitted to a user. Numerous nations are collaborating on an International Virtual Observatory that will be usable by anyone in the world. http://www.ivoa.net/