Thames Amateur astronomical Society
Thames Amateur astronomical Society
The TAAS consists of people of all
ages, backgrounds and experience levels who share an
interest in the science of astronomy. A While
most members are from the southeastern area of
Connecticut, we are fortunate to have members residing in
several states. A
We maintain close relationships with many
area educational facilities including
Connecticut College
and
Mystic
Seaport
.A We do public outreach programs
in a number of diverse venues.A In addition
to having access to a dark sky site in Salem CT, TAAS
also manages and has access to the observatory at
Pine Point School
in
Stonington, CT.A Many members also belong to
other New England astronomical organizations such as
Arunah Hill
,
Stellafane
,
Sky Scrapers
and
Frosty Drew
Observatory
.
The TAAS was originally formed in the
1950s or 60s.A We have been unable to
pinpoint the exact date as the number of members waxed
and waned in the early years and records were not
kept.A Since about 1985, the club has seen
steady growth and currently has about 40 members.
A The level of expertise varies from novice
to professional astronomers. A The TAAS
prides itself on being a friendly group with no one ever
feeling out of place because of a lack of equipment or
knowledge.A
The only requirements for membership are
an interest in and passion for astronomy and the payment
of annual dues - just $10 for an individual membership or
$15 for family membership.A The club strives
to formally meet 4 times a year to discuss club issues
and there is usually food and drink at these friendly,
semi-formal meetings.A Many club members are
avid observers and you will usually find one or several
at one of our dark sky sites with eyes glued to
telescopes or binoculars studying some astronomical
delight.A Before they go, they usually check
out a local Clear Sky Clock:
If one of our members has no astronomical
equipment, other members happily share views through
their own equipment.A Our club also has a
limited supply of equipment available for use by
members.
If you have ever looked at the sky and
wanted to know and see more, please consider joining us
and sharing your enthusiasm with others of like
minds.A If you are thinking of purchasing
equipment but donaEUR(tm)t know what to buy
or where to get it, let us demonstrate and share our
equipment and collective knowledge. A You may
even want to build your own telescope like some from our
talented group have done.
Whatever you are looking for in
astronomy, youaEUR(tm)re likely to find it
within the TAAS.A Please
contact
us
for more information.
astronomy in southeast connecticut
Getting ready for a Messier Marathon at Pine Point Observatory; Observing at Groton Long Point; Checking out equipment at the Winter Star Party; Getting a great binocular view at the TAAS summer party. Sponsors: Visalia Social Media Marketing