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Occultation observations consist of recording occultations, instances of one astronomical body temporarily hiding another from our view, including their position and timing. Such information allows us to gather useful data on either the nearer or further body (or both). While a body may be too small and distant to be seen, its ability to block incoming light of a more distant body remains. Furthermore, even when direct observation of this nearer object is possible, it may be far more expensive than such an occultation observation.
Occultation is especially valuable for studying solar system bodies, which commonly occult stars. Information includes the fine points of the orbit and shape of the object. Some objects studied:
A discovery made by occultation observation is the rings of 10199 Chariklo.
Occultation can also be used to study the more distant body: the occultation of a radio source behind the Moon can assist in correctly associating it with a visible object. Asteroid occultation is also of interest, potentially providing distances in astronomical unit, and with the potential to generate interference which can be analyzed.
The precision of occultation observations improves over time with advances in astrometry, such as Gaia.