Questions? Here are some answers.
- What is AAS’ Mission?
- Who supports AAS?
- What are the benefits of becoming a member of the Austin Astronomical Society?
- I’d like to attend a Public Star Party? When’s the next one?
- What do I need to take to the Star Party?
- I’d like AAS to participate in our STEM or science-related event. Whom do I contact?
- What’s the best telescope to get if I’m starting out in Astronomy?
- I’d like to attend an AAS meeting and see what it’s about. When’s the next one?
Since 1969, the Austin Astronomical Society has helped Central Texans enjoy the sky. Come check out our monthly meetings, our dark sky site, our Practical Astronomy discussions, and more. Click on Upcoming Events or navigate to our special events pages to see what we are doing. To get started in amateur astronomy in general, the Resources tab on the right end of the navigation bar above has many great websites, with plenty of information for any level of amateur astronomer.
AAS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and most of our support comes from our membership dues and donations of members’ time, equipment, or friendly services.
What are the benefits of AAS Membership?
Members enjoy regular public and members’ only star parties, discounts on popular astronomy magazines, reciprocal membership in the Astronomical League, an extensive Outreach and education program, a Loaner Scope program with loan-to-own options, great presentations and leading speakers in astronomical studies, and the mentoring and support of peers all engaged in furthering skills in astronomy. Check here for more information on the benefits of being in AAS.
I’d like to attend a Public Star Party? When’s the next one?
Our Outreach team of astronomers attend local events, community star parties, and host special events, like Austin Under the Stars. Check the Events Calendar to see where AAS will be next!
What do I need to take to the AAS Star Party?
Bottled water is always recommended, as viewing nights can get long. If it’s summer, you may wish to prepare for mosquitoes and brambles – it is outdoors! In winter, dress warmly. A red-filtered flashlight is essential for walking safety – no white or other lights are allowed on the viewing field. A blanket or camp chair is useful. And remember – whatever you bring, always take with you when you go. Check out our Star Party Etiquette and Dark Sky Protocols for more details.
I’d like AAS to participate in our Solar, Star Party, STEM or science-related event. Whom do I contact?
You can request support for your event by completing and submitting the Requesting A Star Party form. Our Outreach Chair or team member will get back to you to see if AAS members in your area can support your event.
What’s the best telescope to get, if I’m starting out in Astronomy?
Tough question! Choosing a telescope is a function of affordability, your current skill, your access to viewing and your interests (planetary, solar, or deep space objects). But purchasing and using a telescope is not necessarily the same as the skill of finding objects in the sky whenever you feel like! Many people start with binoculars. They are an easy investment, and you can see so much with a great set. If you are an AAS member, then participating in our Loaner Scope program is another way of testing what telescope might work for you. But the best advice we can give is for you to attend an AAS Public Star Party. You can meet members and talk to them directly about your interests and needs. At no cost to you, you can see and experience a wide variety of telescopes and how they function, with the owner right there to answer any questions. Lastly, here are a few opinions on the subject:
I’d like to attend an AAS meeting and see what it’s about. When’s the next one?
AAS Practical Astronomy and the subsequent General Assembly meetings are held every second Friday of the month, usually on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin, Engineering Teaching Center, II, RM 2.136, 204 E. Dean Keeton St, Austin, Texas, 78712. Practical Astronomy is our speaker and topics series, and it starts at 7:00pm. The regular General Assembly meeting begins at 7:30pm, immediately after Practical Astronomy. Our meetings are free and open to the public.