Finished! Looks like this project is out of data at the moment!
Thank you for all the hard work! A brief wrap-up message is HERE.
FAQ
What is a Trans-Neptunian Object?
A trans-Neptunian object (TNO) is a minor planet whose orbit is out beyond that of Neptune (~30AU). That is, their semi-major axes are > 30 AU. Pluto is in fact a TNO, although it was not recognized as such when it was discovered in 1930. Not until the discovery of (15760) 1992 QB1 did astronomers recognize this new class of solar system object. Now there are over 2700 known TNOs, which typically fall into one of two dynamical subgroups: Kuiper belt objects (KBOs) and scattered-disk objects (SDOs). The KBOs reside relatively closer in to Neptune than do the more distant SDOs (see below).
What will we do when we find a TNO?
We will take measurements of the object's position from our archived images and submit them to the Minor Planet Center (MPC). They are the official clearing house of all measurements of asteroids and comets. The MPC will check against their catalog of known objects. If the object matches a previously discovered object, it's orbit will be updated. If the object is brand new, the MPC will announce the new discovery to the world! We will keep you posted on any and all objects submitted to the MPC. Even measurements of previously known objects are important to better refine their orbits.
Will I get credit for any discoveries?
The best science is a collaborative effort. That's why we're here! But when astrometry is submitted to the MPC, if you are one of the ones who helped identify an object, our team will reach out to you in a private message on the Zooniverse platform asking if you would like to be listed as a measurer. The MPC has very strict rules about how people can be listed on observations. You can review their guidelines here.
Where will my credit appear?
You can check the Minor Planet Center Archive and look for recently published MPCs (in the first column). Search the document for "G96 Mt. Lemmon Survey" and check for your name under "OBSERVATIONS OF MINOR PLANETS". Note: It is a HUGE document.
Why haven't I found anything yet?
Real dectections in our data sets are few and far between. We find about 1 real candidate in every 500 detections. So DON'T GET DISCOURAGED! Keep on clicking and using those motion tracking skills. For comparison, our observers looking for Near Earth Objects (NEOs) typically must search through ~4,000 detections to find 1 real object with one of our telescopes!
Planet 9?
Will this project finally find the hypothesized 9th planet? Well, maybe! It depends on the size and distance of the planet. The data set we are looking through is sensitive to objects up to ~22 magnitude, so if planet 9 is real and big enough and close enough to be that bright, then we may very well spot it.