ExoClock Unlocked: Fostering Public Engagement in Exoplanet Research

ExoClock Unlocked is an astronomy program designed to engage the public in exoplanet research. It is part of the ExoClock Project, which supports the upcoming Ariel space mission by the European Space Agency (ESA) - a mission focused on studying exoplanet atmospheres. The program has been running for 3 years, and offers participants the chance to contribute directly to a real space mission. Open to all —from amateur astronomers and students to citizen scientists— without access to observational equipment, the program welcomes participants of all backgrounds and experience levels. In collaboration with the Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO), we use remote telescopes to observe exoplanet transits. Participants join monthly online training sessions where they learn how to conduct remote observations and analyze data using accessible, user-friendly tools. Educational materials and step-by-step guidance from the ExoClock team, made up of scientists and public engagement experts, ensure that everyone can take part, regardless of experience level, and learn at their own pace. This presentation will outline the key procedures and strategies that have contributed to the project’s success. We’ll share the challenges we’ve faced, how we addressed them, and the meaningful impact of this inclusive scientific initiative.