Who are we?

A registered non-profit society run by volunteer members who share an interest in astronomy. 50-70 members, with all levels of Astronomy knowledge. We are currently applying for Charity status, Q4 2025.

What do we do?

To quote our Constitution (amended via Special Resolution at our 2025 AGM)….

The purposes of the society are:

  1. To conduct, support and facilitate programs and other opportunities for education about astronomy, space research and other subjects related to astronomy
  2. To provide regular meetings several times per year with educational presentations by experts in astronomy, space research and related subjects.
  3. To support the acquisition and development of facilities and equipment to advance astronomical education and research, including potentially building and operating such facilities.

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Public Meetings – 9 Monthly meetings with engaging presentations on Astronomy & Space designed for a general audience.

Public Outreach – Open viewing sessions where the general public can look through telescopes at objects such as the Moon, Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn. 

On-request Outreach – We are happy to run viewing/education sessions for private groups on request. 

Loan Telescopes – We have a number of loaner scopes available to our paid members. Email telescopes@nanaimoastronomy.com for more info. 

Library – We have a comprehensive lending library for our members. 

Meetings

Monthly meetings, usually on the 4th Thursday of each month. 7-9pm.

January to June, & September to November.

We usually hold a Summer outdoors Pot Luck and a Beer & Burger in July. And we finish the year with a Christmas Social.

Amateur and Professional astronomers present on a wide range of Astronomy/Space related subjects.

Meetings are free for members. Non-members can attend once for free, and are then encouraged to join.

Our meetings are held at Beban Park Social Centre, Rooms 2/3. 2300 Bowen Road, Nanaimo.

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Our activities include observing sessions, telescope making, digital sky imaging, learning sessions about astronomy and space exploration as well as public demonstrations and outreach.

Some examples of past speaker subjects :-

 

  • The HIggs Boson, what is it and why does it matter
  • Why did Pluto get demoted as a Planet.
  • The History of Comets.
  • The Biggest telescope in the world, ALMA, Chile.
  • ExoPlanets and our Solar system is Weird!
  • Killer Rocks from space!
  • Alien life on other worlds.