About Us
Aldrich Astronomical Society (AAS), which was founded in 1932, is one of the oldest amateur astronomy clubs in the United States. We are dedicated to promoting an understanding of the night sky. AAS has also been the recipient of numerous Awards.
Our membership is very active. Here are some examples of what we do:
- Host sky viewing sessions (weather permitting) at both our meeting location in Paxton and our private Observatory location in Oakham.
- Invite lecturers from academia, amateur community, and society members
- Offer educational outreach to schools, libraries, and scouts (100+ events in 2021)
- Get together on a weekly basis for socializing and sharing knowledge
- Steward a statewide adopt-a-library telescope program (176 libraries received telescopes across Massachusetts since 2014)
- Amateur telescope making
- Telescope loan program to members from our extensive inventory
- Astrophotography training and equipment provided
Our club is a registered charity with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (MGL chapter 180) and the United States Internal Revenue Service (501(c)(3) IRS code). We maintain our bylaws (see Aldrich Astronomical Society, Inc. ByLaws) and other filings with the Secretary of the Commonwealth and Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General. Donations are tax deductible.
Aldrich and the Community
Aldrich stays VERY ACTIVE in educating the community by sponsoring many outreach Astronomy programs every year. Whether giving a program at a local Library, having a Stargazing event at a local school, or helping a scout troop with their Astronomy badges, we provide many programs to kids and adults alike. Aldrich averages close to 80+ events every year in locations spanning all over Massachusetts.
Below is a list indicating how many people have attended events we have provided content for over the last 10+ years. There are gaps in this list due to COVID restrictions on events for that year.
| Year | Outreach Attendance |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,364 |
| 2019 | 17,599 |
| 2011 | 6,911 |
| 2010 | 14,890 |
| 2009 | 5,479 |
Join the club
We’d love for you to join and become our newest member!
Current Club Officers & Directors
Development
Nabin Malakar
Email :
Construction Coordinator
Steve Gallo
Email :
Director At Large
Bruce Card
Email :