Welcome to
Croydon Astronomical Society
Why we're here
Our objectives are to advance education in the science of astronomy and related subjects for the public benefit in Croydon and the surrounding area by:
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encouraging a popular interest in astronomy and allied subjects;
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helping beginners, irrespective of their age, to acquire a knowledge of astronomy and allied subjects; and
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providing facilities for practical work and active participation in astronomical observation.
Croydon Astronomical Society is based in Croydon, just a few miles south of London. We hold public talks approximately every two weeks during school term time and aim to open our observatory to the public every Saturday evening. The society was founded in 1956 and operates through the donation of time from its members and donations of money from its members and visitors. If astronomy is your thing, please consider joining us as a member.
Public opening of our Observatory
OBSERVATORY OPEN! This Saturday (5th September) is the first time we will open our observatory this season for the public to visit. The weather is a little uncertain but we will open anyway.
Because it still doesn't get dark until later we will open at 8:30. we will close at 11:00, or maybe earlier if the clouds come in.
Please be aware that at that time on Saturday there isn't much to look at. There is no moon and no interesting planets in the sky. But we will try to find something to show you either with our main telescope of one of our members' "smart telescopes".
All the details are here. But the highlights are: No booking, just turn up. Entry is free (though donations are always welcome). It will be colder than you think and note that we have no toilets on site.
Also, important, please don't try to drive down Waterhouse Lane; you will get stuck. There is no parking on site. We suggest you park safely on Hayes Lane.
Daytime opening
We will be open for the Open House event on Sunday 13th September. We will be at the Observatory from 1 - 4pm whatever the weather. If skies are clear we will also do some solar observing.
Public talks
The Society holds public talks, see the Talks tab for further details. Talks will be held in the Small Hall of Shirley Methodist Church, Shirley. Wel meet on the first and third Fridays of each month.
Talks are open to all, there is no charge, but we have a suggested donation of £3 towards society funds. Refreshments priced at 50p are available during the break.
Shirley Methodist is within walking distance of Trinity School and is easily accessible by bus from East Croydon. The postcode is CR0 8SD. There is parking on site but, if it is full, there is ample parking on nearby roads.
Veil Nebula
May Aurora - Evie Faith Harvey
October Aurora - Graham Cluer
Free talks at Shirley Methodist Church, Croydon.
