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.
6th March
Dan Quinn
The Relative Mountains of the Solar System
Join Dan Quinn as he extends his work on Earth’s mountains to the rest of the Solar System using a topographic definition - the Ribu, meaning 1000 metres of prominence. With two colleagues, he has catalogued thousands of the most prominent peaks on the Moon, Mars, Ceres, Vesta, Mercury and Venus. Explore planetary landscapes and imagine a future of off-world peak-bagging.
13th March
Marc Charron
Friday the 13th, Black Cats and Solar Eclipses, what do they have in common?
Astrophotographer Marc Charron returns to explore the science and superstition behind solar eclipses.
Expect stunning images, fascinating stories, and a look at his upcoming eclipse-chasing adventure as we prepare for the solar eclipse on August 12th.
20th March
Simon Cuthbert
The Moon
The Moon takes centre stage as long-time friend of the club Simon Cuthbert returns with an updated talk with fantastic new data and lunar samples to discuss. Expect fresh insights into our nearest celestial neighbour.
27th March
William Tennant
Goddard Centennial Celebration
Observatory Curator William Tennant marks the 100th anniversary of Robert Goddard’s pioneering launch of the first liquid-fuelled rocket.
Discover how this ground breaking experiment helped lay the foundations for modern spaceflight and the rockets that carry us beyond Earth today.
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
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exclusive access to outings not advertised on the website or on Facebook
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opportunity to participate in observing the night sky
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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