Welcome to the Baton Rouge Astronomical Society home page! This site contains links on the left to pages with astrophotos taken by our members, monthly observing information, our forum, and our own annual Hodges Gardens Star Party! We also have links to hundreds of other astronomy related sites on the Internet. We hope you enjoy your visit!

visitors since counter reset on May 28, 1999.
Web site updated on Monday, June 17, 2013 8:21:40 AM.

News and Events

For information on events held at the Observatory, please visit its Calendar page. For maps and directions to the Observatory, please visit this page.

B.R.A.S. is an organization created and sustained by people who share a common interest in amateur astronomy. Established in 1981, and with about 88 members currently, B.R.A.S. is a meeting place for amateur astronomers in and around the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area.

B.R.A.S. membership is a varied collection of individuals. Some members, new to amateur astronomy, are seeking to learn the basics such as, “How do I learn about the night sky? How does the solar system really work? What is a black hole? What is the best telescope for me? How do I get started in astrophotography?” Other members may be quite experienced in such areas as the visual night sky, cosmology, observing techniques, setting circles, astrophotography, optics, and telescope making. Most members, however, are amateurs with a love of the night sky who enjoy sharing their interest with others.

Programs are varied and can cover many different topics. Films on solar system exploration and the Universe have been viewed and discussed. Exhibits of various astronomical charts, books, computer programs have been brought by members. Other activities include stargazing at the Highland Road Park Observatory and at a members only dark sky site. Participation in regional observing events, such as the Deep South Regional Star Gaze (Fall) and the Messier Marathon (Spring), and hosting the Hodges Gardens Star Party. Special programs for the members and the public such as Astronomy Day and Space Week. Members can participate in a wide variety of observing programs and awards offered by the Astronomical League, of which membership in BRAS entitles you to.

Meetings are usually held on the 2nd Monday of the month at the Observatory, at 7:00 pm. However, this time and place is subject to change. Information about meetings is included in the club newsletter NIGHT VISIONS. For information you can call the Observatory at (225) 768-9948 during office hours. Additional information can be found by calling the Library Information Service at (225) 231-3750, or contact:

Merrill Hess - (225) 567-3450 (home), (225) 342-7632 (work), merrillhess@gmail.com (e-mail)

Craig Brenden - (225) 751-1685

If you would like B.R.A.S. to hold an observing event, give a lecture or discuss astronomy or space related events, contact us at outreach@brastro.org

Call the STARLINE for 24 hour weekly information on stargazing sessions, solar viewing, and Planetarium events.
(225) 344-0535

If you would like to join B.R.A.S., or would like to get some more information, use the link on the left.

Officers

• President: Ben Toman
• Vice-President: Merrill Hess
• Secretary: Charles Edwards
• Co-Secretary: Rory Bentley
• Treasurer: Geoff Michelli

The Baton Rouge Astronomical Society, Inc. is a member of
The Astronomical League	International Dark-sky Association

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Webmaster: Frederick J. Barnett

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