Airdrie Astronomical Association
& Airdrie Observatory
Welcome to Airdrie Astronomical Association
& Airdrie Observatory
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Airdrie Astronomical Association
Airdrie Astronomical Association was founded in 2009 and is proud to be part of a long history of observing and community education in Airdrie dating back to 1896.
Join us on Friday nights (September to May) for weekly meetings where you can enjoy presentations by speakers on a wide range of subjects including science, technology, astronomy, spaceflight, astrophotography and much more.
Plan your visit to the historic Airdrie Observatory, view the night sky through a real Victorian telescope and learn more about astronomy from our knowledgeable team of curators and observatory assistants.
About Us
Airdrie Astronomical Association (AAA) was formed on 1st May 2009 by local space enthusiasts and we are proud to be the curators of the historic Airdrie Observatory. We hold weekly meetings between September and May that are open to everyone who has an interest in or wants to learn more about science, technology and our incredible universe.
We invite you to join us at one of our regular Friday meetings or come along to one of our events in the observatory. There is always something happening in our unique Observatory - from school visits, telescope tutorials and guest speakers, to open evenings, kids activities and special events.
Visitors are always welcome to come along on a Friday night to meet us and enjoy listening to one of our excellent speakers. For even more benefits why not find out about becoming a member. Click the button below for more information.
Friday Night
Meetings
Our Friday night meetings are a great opportunity to meet like minded people with an interest in astronomy and spaceflight.
Enjoy the weekly space news and a range of guest speakers who are experts in their subjects. We also have video nights and offer the opportunity for members to give presentations on subjects that interest them. New members are always very welcome so come along and join in the fun. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult over 18.
We meet at New Wellwynd Parish Church, Wellwynd, Airdrie ML6 0AG.
FRIDAY EVENING AGENDA:
7:30 - 8:00pm - Space News
8:00pm - 8:30pm - Tea Break
8:30pm - 9:30pm - Main Talk
Airdrie Observatory is a fully-functioning and unique facility, and AAA are delighted to manage the facility on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council.
It is a great place to visit for all types of groups, societies and clubs and we use it throughout the year.
Our dedicated Curators can provide advice and hints and tips on all manner of space-related questions. Whether you are a complete beginner or have an existing interest in astronomy, a visit to the Observatory can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.
Observing
the Night Sky
What's on
Visitors are always welcome to join us at our Friday night meetings. No prior knowledge needed - Just bring your curiosity.
See what speakers we have coming up below.
7th November
Helena Cochrane
Astrophotography
Join us for an introduction to astrophotography, from one enthusiast’s journey into capturing the night sky to practical tips for beginners.
Discover how you can get started at an accessible level and explore the wonders above.
5th December
Xmas Quiz
Christmas Quiz with
Stewart
Don’t miss our fantastic annual Christmas Quiz!
Join our resident Quizmaster, Stewart, for a fun-filled evening of festive questions and surprises.
Will he test your memory of the past year? Will there be Aliens?
All will be revealed!
14th November
Thiago Silva
Planet of the Month
- Earth
Join National Geographic Explorer and University of Stirling Senior Lecturer Thiago Silva for a fascinating look at Amazonian ecosystems.
Discover how he uses drones and 3D scanning as a “digital ecologist” to study and protect one of the world’s most vital habitats.
12th December
No Meeting
No Meeting tonight
That’s us wrapped up for the year!
Our weekly meetings have now concluded for 2025, and we can’t wait to welcome you back in the New Year.
Join us in January for another season of learning, laughter, and discovery.
21st November
Short Talk Night
Short Talk Night
- AAA Members
We’re delighted to bring you another Short Talk Night!
Join AAA members as they share bite-sized talks on topics that inspire them, from new discoveries to personal passions.
A relaxed evening of learning, laughter, and curiosity for everyone to enjoy.
19th December
Xmas Dinner
Members Christmas Dinner
Tonight our members come together for our annual Christmas Dinner
A festive evening of good food and great company.
Please note, this event must be booked in advance.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
28th November
Richard Shaw
Planet of the Month
- Earth
There are several types of supernova but the most spectacular is brought about by the collapsing core of a massive star at the end of it's life. From the hottest object in the Galaxy to mysterious, wispy particles that rarely interact with their surroundings, come and find out about the breathtakingly fast sequence of events that lead up to a Core Collapse Supernova.
Becoming a member
Becoming a member is easy, simply pick up a membership form at one of our weekly meetings.
Benefits of becoming a member include
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borrowing books and equipment
-
exclusive access to outings not advertised on the website or on Facebook
-
opportunity to participate in observing the night sky
-
access to Airdrie observatory outside library opening hours
and much more!
Fees are as follows:
Full Member (Waged / Working) : £15 per annum
Full Member (Unwaged / retired) : £10 per annum
Junior Members (Under 18) : £5 per annum
Family Membership : £25 per annum (Up to 2 Adults and all children under the age of 18)
We ask for a weekly donation towards the room hire of £1.00 from members, £2.00 for visitors, children under 18 are free.
We supply tea, coffee, soft drinks and biscuits for the tea break.
5 past curators from Airdrie Observatory
5 past curators from Airdrie Observatory