Archive Registration

Who may register?

Anyone can obtain a MAST user's account and download data, including astronomical researchers, amateurs, educators, and the general public. However, general users should be aware that the archive contains data, not pictures. The format of the data may not be compatible with most personal computer systems as the data are intended for professional astronomical analysis. HST images in formats which are more easily displayed (e.g., GIF, JPEG, and TIFF) are available from the STScI Office of Public Outreach.

Do I need to register?

HST and FUSE Guest Observers MUST register in order to retrieve their proprietary data.

Registration is optional if you wish to retrieve only public data (HST and FUSE data typically remain proprietary to the original investigators for a year (HST) or 6 months (FUSE). All other data in the MAST archive are public). Public data can be retrieved using the username anonymous, and using your email address as the password. A valid email address is required so that you can be informed when your request has completed.

How does MAST use the information I provided when I registered?

We use the contact information provided by users on the registration form in case we need to contact them about the status of their request or for account maintenance. Occasionally, we send out notices to all of our registered users with pertinent information concerning the archive. We also use the information you provide to help us understand our user base, which in turn helps us develop our services accordingly.

How do I register?

To register, simply fill out our WWW Registration Form. Or, if your browser can't handle HTML forms, an ASCII version is available; fill it in and email it to archive@stsci.edu.

How can I keep my account current?

• Forgot your password? Resend your password to email listed in your account
• Change your account password
• Update Contact Information

To request access to proprietary data, please contact archive@stsci.edu.

If you have any other questions, please contact archive@stsci.edu.