Support AOS this GIVING TUESDAY, or any day you can

As we approach our 60th anniversary, AOS is preparing for its most ambitious endeavor yet: upgrading our Sue Rose Observatory in Southold, NY. Your tax-deductible support will directly fund the observatory upgrade, ensuring that Long Islanders have unparalleled access to the cosmos. No gift is too small.

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Celebrating 60 Years of Long Island Astronomy

Join Us Renew

Great news! We now also use Square so you can now join or renew with credit or debit cards.

Our Next Meeting is
Sunday, May 4th at 1:30pm, Hofstra University

The Amateur Observers’ Society monthly meetings for members and the public are normally held 1:30–4pm on the first Sunday of the Month, October–June, the second Sunday in September. Sometimes we have to move our meeting to a new date to coordinate with our meeting place, we keep this post updated if things change. See our Meetings page for directions to the meeting location listed above.
Discussions concerning observing and equipment use, plus in-person and online presentation of worldwide guest speakers. All are welcome.
Thinking of becoming a member? Contact us for a guest invite.

Upcoming Events

Check Out Our Past Events

About Us

We are an astronomy club.

Established in 1965, the Amateur Observers’ Society of New York (“AOSNY”) was created as a means for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages to meet together. Amateur Astronomy is about helping others, learning, doing, and having fun! Our organization has several observing options for the general public, including a 14-inch diameter Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, housed at our Sue Rose Observatory at the Custer Observatory facility in Southold, NY. We are there almost every clear Saturday night, employing Electronically Assisted Astronomy equipment to comply with social distancing mandates.

Our mission is to bring Long Island astronomy to the public and provide astronomy resources to members. This expresses our commitment not only to serve our members, but also to educate and inspire the public.

Reach for the Universe!

Our activities have grown with our membership. In addition to sponsoring numerous Long Island astronomy activities, we are actively involved with reducing the light pollution problem on the Island and throughout the state. With members owning telescopes of all types and sizes we are more than eager to help with any questions you may have about sky observation, celestial photography, telescope purchasing or anything related to your astronomical interests. We invite you to join us in these events and at our monthly meetings in order to learn about and share our enthusiasm for celestial observation.

Would you like to take a peek through one of our scopes? No problem!

We enjoy being an active Long Island astronomy club with lots to do and participate in, and it is not necessary to own any equipment to join. Come enjoy the wonderful nighttime sky and daytime activities with us. When you join, for a small annual membership fee of $25 or only $30 for the household, you and your family can be a part of the AOSNY family and enjoy more than just the heavens above:

  • Club meetings (1-2x per month), often with outstanding guest speakers
  • Our newsletter, the Celestial Observer
  • Access to The Hotline, AOSNY members direct source of club news and communication
  • Members-only star parties with use of club telescopes
  • Annual AOSNY events such as the summer picnic and holiday party
  • Member outings and field trips (additional costs may apply)
  • Discounts to select astronomy books and magazines
  • Discounts from select telescope vendors
  • Membership to the Astronomical League and their newsletter, Reflector
  • Participation in AOSNY and Astronomical League observing programs
Learn more

News

Cradle of Aviation
The President’s Message

April (meteor) Showers…

Dear Members, Spring has officially arrived, and with it comes clearer skies, warmer nights, and a renewed excitement for stargazing—as galaxy season officially starts! April is always a favorite month among astronomers—between planetary alignments, meteor showers, and the changing constellations overhead, there’s no shortage of celestial wonders to enjoy. We kick things off early in…

Close-up shot of blooming cherry blossoms on a branch, capturing the essence of spring.
The President’s Message

March springs upon us with Mercury and Messier Marathons

Hello, everyone! As we move into March, we find ourselves on the cusp of spring — a time of renewal, longer days, and clearer skies (hopefully!). With the Vernal Equinox on March 20, we can officially say: SPRING IS COMING! It’s the perfect opportunity to shake off the winter chill and prepare for an exciting season of observing….

Image of champagne-filled glasses
The President’s Message

Our 2024 Holiday Party Toast from the AOS President

Good afternoon, everyone! As we gather here today, lit by the glow of the holiday season, let us take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary year we’ve had and the even brighter future that lies ahead. Today, we celebrate our shared passion for the cosmos, the bonds we’ve built as a society, and the…

Winter’s shortest days are our longest astronomy nights.
The President’s Message

Winter’s shortest days are our longest astronomy nights.

Dear Members, December is upon us, bringing with it some of the most stunning celestial events of the year. The crisp, clear nights of winter provide an excellent opportunity to observe the wonders of the night sky.The highlight of the month is the Geminid meteor shower, which peaks on the night of December 13th into…

Discover the Universe with us this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd!
Announcement

Discover the Universe with us this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd!

Dear Friends of the Night Sky, For nearly six decades, the Amateur Observers’ Society of New York (AOS) has been dedicated to bringing the wonders of the cosmos closer to our community. It’s a mission fueled by curiosity, passion, and an unshakable belief that the stars above inspire awe, discovery, and connection. 2024: A Stellar…

Astronomy compels the soul to look upwards and leads us from this world to another.

Plato

Ways to Support AOSNY

Donate
Donate Money

AOSNY is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization and, as such, donations are tax deductible within federal guidelines. Please also check with a tax accountant for details.

Donate Equipment

If you have astronomy equipment that you are considering donating, or would like to know whether AOSNY can find it a good home, we might be able to help.

Our Astronomy Affiliates

Astronomical League logo

Amateur Observers’ Society merchandise is getting a new logo!

AOSNY branded hats, sweatshirts, tees and many other items are now available. It’s a great way to share your pride and show support. It also makes for great gift ideas for friends and family of our organization.

Visit the AOSNY store!