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InformationThe Association was formed in 1890 and membership is open to all persons interested in astronomy. It has an international reputation for the quality of its observational and scientific work. ObjectivesThe encouragement of all aspects of observational astronomy and the association of observers at all levels for mutual help. The promotion of a general interest in astronomy for beginners as well as for the more advanced. The circulation of current astronomical information and observational material. The support of modern advanced techniques for observation, data handling and scientific presentation of results. The presentation of medals and prizes in recognition of outstanding contributions to astronomy. SectionsTo coordinate members' work, the Association is organised in the following Sections:
Members of the Association are welcome to participate in the work of any of the Sections, no formal qualifications are required. The Section Directors are there to help you with your observations, so if you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch. They will also be pleased to receive any observations you make. Some Sections charge a small amount for members to receive Section newsletters or other publications. OfficersIn addition to the Section Directors, the Association functions with the help of the Elected Officers and Other Officers of the BAA. These comprise: Elected Officers Other Officers Other Elected Members of Council - 2005/2006 PublicationsThe Journal (six issues per year) includes reports of meetings, members' papers, reports from the observing sections, occasional notes, news, special articles, letters and reviews of new books. The annual Handbook is an almanac, which gives all data necessary for observational work. Some ephemeris information is available online. The Electronic Bulletins give immediate notice by email of discoveries, astronomical news and BAA meetings, to all Members who request them. You can subscribe to the e-Bulletins by sending an email to circadmin@britastro.com stating your name, address, and BAA Membership Number. The paper Circulars give notification of special events, such as the discovery of a comet or nova, or occultation predictions, and are posted to those who have paid a small additional subscription.
MeetingsLondon meetings will be held in a new location; New Hunts House, Kings
College Proceedings include papers prepared by members, talks on current topics and observing techniques, and more formal addresses by experts and professionals. The 'December' meeting is usually held in the third week of December, when the Association’s Christmas Lecture is presented. The Annual Exhibition Meeting is held in June and it is customary for an Ordinary meeting to be held away from London in April and September. Other meetings, including those held outside London, are usually held on Saturdays. Dates, venues and topics of meetings are given in the Journal. Individual or combined Section meetings are frequently held at venues in various parts of the country. The Association also organises or supports a number of residential weekend courses, and in recent years these have been held at Winchester, Preston, Horncastle and Dundee. The Meetings page provides a diary of meetings and events in the coming year. InstrumentsThe Association's loan collection The Association owns about 200 instruments for loan to members, although the majority of them are currently in use. Application for loan is to be made to the Curator of Instruments, and must be supported by a Section Director or by a member of at least five years' standing. Preference is given to those who intend to participate, or who are already participating, in the work of the Observing Sections, and normally few items are available for beginners. Purchase of equipment The Association does not recommend or endorse any specific make of telescope or other equipment, but enquiries can be passed to members who can provide advice about choosing and purchasing wisely. LibraryThe library, containing over 4000 books and numerous periodicals, is maintained at Burlington House, Piccadilly. It is open to members on Wednesdays from 13:00 to 17:00 hours. Books and slides may be borrowed in person or by post at the member's expense. Transparencies and other materials are available for loan, and catalogues may be obtained for a small charge. It is regretted that library books, slides and instruments are not normally sent overseas. EducationApart from the activities already detailed, the Association is able to provide lecturers, a limited quantity of audio-visual material and assistance for members researching particular subjects. Many scientific societies, universities, colleges and schools are affiliated to the Association and enjoy its benefits, and one branch exists in New South Wales, Australia. GrantsThe Ridley Grant is intended to encourage observational astronomy by providing financial support to applicants who can show that they have an interesting astronomical project in mind. Awards and MedalsEarly in the new year Council considers nominations for the Association’s Medals and Awards. If any members wish to nominate a fellow member for some notable contribution, a suitably worded citation (no more than one side A4, and signed by two sponsoring members) should be sent to the Business Secretary.
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21/12/2005
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