Big Data analytics and Cognitive Computing: future opportunities for Astronomical research

TL;DR

The paper discusses how future astronomical research will heavily rely on big data analytics and cognitive computing to handle vast, multi-wavelength datasets, enabling faster discoveries and reducing human bias.

Contribution

It highlights the potential of integrating advanced data analytics and cognitive computing into astronomy, emphasizing early adoption for significant scientific advancements.

Findings

Astronomy will involve multi-messenger, large-scale data analysis.

Cognitive computing can reduce human bias in research.

Early adoption of these technologies can accelerate discoveries.

Abstract

The days of the lone astronomer with his optical telescope and photographic plates are long gone: Astronomy in 2025 will not only be multi-wavelength, but multi-messenger, and dominated by huge data sets and matching data rates. Catalogues listing detailed properties of billions of objects will in themselves require a new industrial-scale approach to scientific discovery, requiring the latest techniques of advanced data analytics and an early engagement with the first generation of cognitive computing systems. Astronomers have the opportunity to be early adopters of these new technologies and methodologies: the impact can be profound and highly beneficial to effecting rapid progress in the field. Areas such as SETI research might favourably benefit from cognitive intelligence that does not rely on human bias and preconceptions.