Astronomy in the Big Data Era. (22nd May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Yanxia; Zhao, Yongheng
• Is Part Of: Data science journal. Volume 14(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-05-22
• Subjects: Big data -- Data mining -- Astrostatistics -- Astroinformatics; Science -- Data processing -- Periodicals; Database management -- Periodicals; 502.85
• DOI: 10.5334/dsj-2015-011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1683-1470

Abstract

The fields of Astrostatistics and Astroinformatics are vital for dealing with the big data issues now faced by astronomy. Like other disciplines in the big data era, astronomy has many V characteristics. In this paper, we list the different data mining algorithms used in astronomy, along with data mining software and tools related to astronomical applications. We present SDSS, a project often referred to by other astronomical projects, as the most successful sky survey in the history of astronomy and describe the factors influencing its success. We also discuss the success of Astrostatistics and Astroinformatics organizations and the conferences and summer schools on these issues that are held annually. All the above indicates that astronomers and scientists from other areas are ready to face the challenges and opportunities provided by massive data volume.