SOCIETY in focus

Aberdeen Astronomical Society (AAS) recently held an open evening (on 13 November) welcoming anyone interested in learning more about the night sky and how to observe it. The event was well received with 60 attendees. The aim is to help people understand various aspects of astronomy by presenting it in a structured yet informal way, while encouraging interaction. The meeting was held at one of our regular venues, Robert Gordon’s College in central Aberdeen.

The evening was divided into four parts: a presentation on what can be seen in the night sky at this time of year; a talk on solar observing, showing both types of scope you can use and safe ways to view the Sun; a talk on astronomy basics; and finally, a demonstration of the different telescope types. As some AAS members are keen astrophotographers, the latter talk included examples of photos taken through one of the telescopes on display.

AAS was founded in 1969 and currently has 45 members. The society holds two meetings each month from September to May with one meeting per month for the rest of the year.

The society is keen to welcome new members and help people get the most out of learning about the night sky and using astronomical equipment. AAS also has access to a dark-sky site: just 20 miles from Aberdeen but dark enough for incredible night-sky views. So, if you are a visitor to Aberdeen or live locally and are keen to learn more about astronomy, look us up on our website: aberdeenastro.org.uk.

Neville Brown, committee member, Aberdeen Astronomical Society