Citizen Science programs, also known as Community Science, allow everyday people to assist scientists in collecting and analyzing data. These programs rely on the participation of interested individuals to contribute in ways that professional scientists and computers cannot. For example, in Galaxy Zoo, participants are able to spot patterns and identify unusual objects in vast amounts of astrophotos.
Other programs such as GLOBE Observer and Globe at Night encourage people to collect and submit their own data about the natural world using their smartphones or by simply observing with their eyes. Some programs require assistance from individuals in training artificial intelligence to recognize patterns in data or in examining old data for new discoveries. JunoCam even invites participants to analyze raw data from space probes, allowing for a unique hands-on experience.
Additionally, there are programs dedicated to the discovery of exoplanets, showcasing the diversity of opportunities available for citizen scientists to contribute to scientific research in various fields. By actively engaging the public in scientific endeavors, Citizen Science programs foster a sense of collaboration and empowerment among individuals of all backgrounds.