Long Island Astronomy for Over 55 Years

AOSNY Astronomy Club Logo

amateur observers’ society of new york

Join Us Renew

Our Next Meeting is
December 3rd 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

Member Sign Up for 2023 Holiday Party

Visit our Events page for details and payment. We hope to see you there!

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

Illustration of Cross Quarter Diagram
Celestial Observer Newsletter

The President’s Message

To the Members of AOS, While October leaves us with full buckets and pockets of Candy Corn and witches’ potions, this year’s celebration of Halloween, short for All Hallows’ Eve, is an astronomical holiday otherwise known as Cross-Quarter Day (CQD).  CQD is the midway point between the Autumnal Equinox and the Winter Solstice.  DO YOU…

crow-on-tree-with-milky-way
Celestial Observer Newsletter

The President’s Message

To the Members of AOS, As we have now transitioned past the Autumnal Equinox and head into the Fall Season, October brings upon us thoughts of cooler nights, falling leaves, earlier darker skies, culminating in spooky Halloween festivities with Jack–o’- Lanterns, Witches and Goblins… October also brings us meteor season! And this October is going to…

Cradle of Aviation
Astronomy in the community

Great turnout for International Astronomy Day 2023

An amazing 600 guests participated in Astronomy Day on April 29, 2023 at the Cradle of Aviation in Garden City, NY. An incredible 27 volunteers from Amateur Observers Society of New York set up telescopes in the Atrium for viewing, and presented workshops on Radio Astronomy, Stellarium: What’s Up in the May?, Light Pollution, Star…

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 available!

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!