Stockton Astronomical Society

"The purpose of the Society is to foster interest in and promote the general knowledge of astronomy and related sciences."

One of the benefits of membership in the SAS is the monthly newsletter, Valley Skies. A courtesy copy is available by contacting me through Email or the SAS mailing address. Valley Skies is mailed at the beginning of each month.

Along with Valley Skies, I will enclose a brochure describing the activities and other benefits of membership. Whether your level of interest in the night sky is casual or serious, you will find many other members with similar inclinations.

Although our membership includes many serious amateur astronomers, and a couple of professionals, the majority of our members do not own telescopes and enjoy membership simply to satisfy a general curiosity about the night sky and about the cycles of our solar system which affect our daily lives.

The cost of membership is nominal - $20/year for a family membership (pro-rated the first year, with all renewals on a calendar-year basis). If you are new to the hobby of amateur astronomy and fancy the idea of owning your own telescope, we recommend against buying a telescope until you have had a chance to try different types, and have acquired some familiarity with the night skies.

The Society has several telescopes - from a 3½" refractor to a 13" reflector - that are available to new members. The intent is to provide members with the opportunity to try observational astronomy with different instruments before committing to a purchase. There is no charge for use of the loaner telescopes - but you do have to be a member.

Again, thank you for your interest. We hope to see you soon at one of our meetings or star parties.

Sincerely,
 

Llody Altamirano
President
Stockton Astronomical Society