SOLENT AMATEUR ASTRONOMERS
The Solent Amateur Astronomers Society was formed in 1972 by Ron Arbour and Ken Medway from a nucleus of active observers from the Southampton Astronomical Society. The Society is a group of people who collectively share a common interest in astronomy. Their members come from all backgrounds, meet regularly to discuss astronomy, observe, hear lectures and socialise.
There are no paid positions within the Society; which is directed by the committee and assisted by a few others, all on a voluntary basis. The Society is a non-profit making group whose basic aim is the the promotion of an interest in the science of astronomy. All the Society's income comes from membership subscriptions, donations, opening its observatories to the public and the generosity of some of its members.
Financially, the Society exists essentially to break even, to serve its members, its objectives and the community at large. Currently one of the most active groups in the UK, Solent has a small, friendly membership, regular meetings, instrument hire, a library, and the use of its own observatory at Toothill.
Shortly afterwards a famous visitor to Toothill was none other than Dr. Patrick Moore. Since records began in 1994 about six thousand visitors have been to Toothill when the observatory has opened to the public.
The Society has an active policy of education for all those interested in astronomy; talks and visits for schools, children's, youth and adults groups, and the general public who have visited our observatories over the last few years.
The Society is constantly striving to improve its facilities, for both its members and the public so that astronomy becomes accessible to all those interested. As with all clubs, membership varies but currently averages about 40 to 50 memberships, of which there are several types. The Society has its own monthly newsletter that is sent to all members, which details club news and events and features articles that members have written as well as information about astronomical events.
Solent also boasts an extensive library of books, tapes and videos, all of which can be hired by members. In addition, the club has an instrument available for hire to members, namely an 8 inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.