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Short Abstract

This talk synthesizes two complementary studies, a taxonomic framework of citizen science platforms and a conceptual exploration of citizen observatories, examining their sociotechnical complexity and role as living architectures for participatory action.

Abstract

This talk brings together insights from two complementary research studies to understand citizen observatories within the evolving landscape of participatory science infrastructures.

Our first study systematically reviewed 474 publications on citizen science platforms, uncovering significant terminological fragmentation with 98 unique terms describing similar technologies. This analysis produced a purpose-based taxonomy identifying nine functional platform categories. Within this taxonomy, citizen observatories emerge primarily as onsite data collection infrastructures, though many integrate multiple functionalities across the broader ecosystem.

The second study explores citizen observatories through three analytical lenses. Descriptively, we examine them as sociotechnical systems where digital technologies, collaborative practices, scientific protocols, and organizational processes converge. Instrumentally, we analyze how they function as research infrastructures providing services, tools, and standards that sustain participatory projects over time. Normatively, we investigate their orientation toward collective action, environmental justice, and knowledge democratization.

Integrating these perspectives evidence the essential functions allowing citizen observatories to operate as infrastructures, from technical capabilities like interoperability and data quality assurance to social dimensions including community building, capacity development, and inclusive governance. We present a typology contrasting "tailored" observatories designed for specific contexts with "open" observatories serving multiple initiatives, examining their distinct sustainability challenges and complementary roles.

Citizen observatories constitute complex sociotechnical assemblages requiring sustained institutional support and appropriate governance. Rather than temporary tools or finite projects, they represent public systems of information and participation essential for articulating science, society, and policy, demanding recognition as legitimate research infrastructures within open science ecosystems.