AAS Loaner Telescopes

 

Loaner Telescope Program

 

One of the benefits of Austin Astronomical Society membership is access to our Loaner Telescope Program. This program lets members — especially those who don’t yet own equipment — borrow telescopes and binoculars to explore the night sky.

 

The program is ideal for beginners who want to learn the sky, develop observing skills, and try different types and sizes of amateur telescopes before deciding what to purchase.

 

Requirements & Policies

  • Borrowers must be AAS members in good standing for at least 60 days.
  • The standard loan period is 30 days, renewable once if no one else is waiting.
  • Equipment is picked up from and returned to the Loaner Scope Coordinator (location arranged at time of checkout).
  • Novices are encouraged to learn basic star-hopping and star-chart use before borrowing. *Turn Left at Orion* by Consolmagno & Davis is a great starter resource.
  • Loaned equipment must be stored in a clean, sheltered environment, kept capped when not in use, and never left in a hot car.
  • Never point loaner optics at the Sun. Use only after sunset or in full shade.
  • Do not disassemble or clean optics. Contact the Loaner Scope Coordinator if maintenance is needed.
  • There is no rental fee, but borrowers are responsible for replacing any lost or damaged items.
  • Borrowers must provide a copy of a valid Texas driver’s license (or guardian’s license) to be kept on file during the loan period.
  • Checking out equipment constitutes agreement to these terms.

 

How to Request a Scope

  1. Browse the inventory table below to find an available telescope.
  2. Fill out the Loan Request Form at the bottom of this page.
  3. The Loaner Scope Coordinator will contact you to arrange pickup.

 

 

 

Questions? Email equipment@austinastro.org