Research Activities

The AAQ has a strong research ethic, with members undertaking their own research, collaborating with other amateur and professional groups, and publishing their research in peer reviewed journals.

Research Grants

The Edward Corbould Research Fund (ECRF) of the Astronomical Association of Queensland (AAQ) was established in 1987 with a grant of $50,000 from Edward Corbould, a property developer in the Queensland Sunshine Coast area.

The purpose of this fund is to support astronomical research projects by amateur astronomers and tertiary students. Grants are provided from the investment income of the fund, and will only be offered if the fund attains a certain level of growth each year. If a grant is to offered, late in the prior year many amateur astronomy societies around Australia are advised by email, as are Queensland universities with academic astronomy programs.

The Association welcomes interest from secondary school students, university students and amateur astronomers who would like to contribute to astronomy but are unsure about, or put off by, the idea of preparing a research proposal. Be not afraid! You also don’t have to be a member to start with. You can make a difference through activities such as Citizen Science or by us working with you to bring your interest or idea to life. We may be able to provide resources from the association assets, or help you in preparing a grant application to get the funds you need. We have awarded amateur astronomy researchers only too happy to assist you. Make contact with us and we can discuss what is possible.

Awards