DataScope Help

The DataScope is NVO's tool for looking at single objects. You can point the DataScope at any point in the sky, or at any object if you know its name.

Click the link to launch the DataScope. Enter a sky position or name (for a good beginning object, try entering "Centaurus A".) A new page will appear, and the DataScope will begin returning results. Every 15 seconds, the page will reload with more data.

Data are divided into four types. Multiwavelength services are web sites that organize data from other sources. Images are pictures of what the object looks like, available as JPG or FITS files. Observations are data tables from measurements of the object with a single instrument. Catalogs are data from surveys or other catalogs of the night sky.

The best way to learn how to use the DataScope is to explore it on your own. See the links below if you need more help.

DataScope animated demo

DataScope user's guide (offsite)