Year of the Comet
Comet C/2011 L4 (PANSTARRS)

PANSTARRS information

Comet C/2012 S1 (ISON)

ISON information

Web Extras

Real-time talking

Internet Relay Chat brings amateur astronomers from around the globe together to talk turkey about their passion.
By Michael E. Bakich
Published: January 21, 2007
A popular way for like-minded amateur astronomers to meet in cyberspace started in 1988, when Jarkko Oikarinen of Finland created Internet Relay Chat (IRC). IRC creates "chat channels" that work through computer-network servers. When you type a line, it goes to the server you are using. That server links to other servers, and your line is displayed to everyone on the channel. Since its start, IRC has become a popular way for people from more than 65 countries to meet.
Subscriber-Only Content Subscriber Only Access
You are currently not logged in. This article is only available to Astronomy magazine subscribers.
Already a subscriber to Astronomy magazine?
If you are already a subscriber to Astronomy magazine you must log into your account to view this article. If you do not have an account you will need to regsiter for one. Registration is FREE and only takes a couple minutes.
Login   Register
Non-subscribers, Subscribe TODAY and save!
Subscribe
Get instant access to subscriber content on Astronomy.com!
  • Access our interactive Atlas of the Stars
  • Get full access to StarDome PLUS
  • Columnist articles
  • Search and view our equipment review archive
  • Receive full access to our Ask Astro answers
  • BONUS web extras not included in the magazine
  • Much more!
SEARCH SITE
Subscriber Only Access
Subscriber Only Content
Look for this icon. This denotes premium subscriber content. Learn more »
Become a Member of Astronomy.com
Register today for access to more valuable resource information.
Interact in our forums, comment on articles, receive our newsletter and much more!
Not a member?
Subscriber and Member Login
Password
Remember me