Frequently asked questions

What type of search can be done ? what terms are allowed ?

The "VizieR Catalogs" search allows you to search for catalogs matching your words.
You can specify the fields to be queried, through the "quick" access (first author, keyword, etc.), or to select one in the full list of terms listed in "All search terms". The available terms are defined in the following table.

Fields description

Term	Description
{{field.field}}	{{field.desc}}

What is the difference between a "Search" and a "Full Search" ?

Tick the "Full Search" to expand the search to all the searchable fields./p>

What is the "Highlight" box ?

Tick the "Highlight" box to see the items which match the words of your query./p>

How can I search for an exact title ?

To search for an exact expression, quotes are required :
e.g. "Kepler Input Catalog"

How can I find the Gaia catalog without all Gaia related catalogs ?

To restrict the search to specific catalogs/surveys like Gaia, SDSS, 2MASS... you can use the field alias :
e.g. alias: Gaia
Returns catalogs (including DR1 and DR2) whereas « Gaia » alone gives a long list of catalogs.

How can I find all the catalogs using 2MASS identifiers?

To retrieve catalogs using the name of the sources from a specific survey, you can use tables.columns.name :
e.g. tables.columns.name:2MASS
Returns a long list of catalogs where the 2MASS names of the sources are given in at least one table of the catalog.

How can I retrieve measurements from specific facilities ?

To search for catalogs containing measurements from specific telescopes, you can use the field Description :
e.g. description:Kepler Q17
Returns catalogs having "Kepler" in the Description section AND "Q17" anywhere else…