ASTRONOMY CLUBS

Local astronomy clubs are well-organized, can be found

in every state, and are available to children of all ages.

The American Association of Amateur Astronomers Web site,

www.corvus.com, is a starting point for locating a club in

your area.

The local astronomy club provides an affordable and interactive

outlet for children who are interested in the cosmos.

They will find kids with similar likes, or they can explore the

universe with a parent or sibling. One of the most exciting

events is a “Star Party.” No, there are no movie stars here, but

there are many telescopes—sophisticated and simple, large

and small—that everyone shares to view the heavens. The Star

Party lasts approximately two days and is held on a weekend

when there is no moon. The sky is pitch black and the stars

are so bright that you feel you are right up there with them.

Attendees pitch tents and spend the evenings talking to each

other; plotting astral movements and viewing moons, stars,

and planets. During the day, there is some rest, activities for

the kids, and discussions about the universe and upcoming

astral phenomena.

For the kid who is into astronomy, this weekend is not to

be taken lightly: the adults are serious about their interest and

are committed to teaching and sharing what they know. Your

children will meet other kids with the same interests, and,

most importantly, they can immerse themselves in their hobby.

Contact your local astronomy club for more information.

Some events are held on a larger scale, and some are on a

smaller scale. But if you want to encourage your future astronomer,

this could be the right place to begin.

The Rockland Astronomy Club is one club that receives

great reviews from amateur astronomers in terms of program-

ming and events for both children and adults. It is a club that

has a huge symposium once a year: NASA representatives

and former astronauts give lectures and present interactive

displays for hands-on learning. Games, raffles, books, and

equipment are available for sale. This club is helpful, informative,

and if contacted by e-mail it will provide helpful information

to interested future astronomers.