Airdrie Astronomical Association
& Airdrie Observatory
Welcome to Airdrie Astronomical Association
& Airdrie Observatory
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Airdrie Astronomical Association
Airdrie Astronomical Association was founded in 2009 and is proud to be part of a long history of observing and community education in Airdrie dating back to 1896.
Join us on Friday nights (September to May) for weekly meetings where you can enjoy presentations by speakers on a wide range of subjects including science, technology, astronomy, spaceflight, astrophotography and much more.
Plan your visit to the historic Airdrie Observatory, view the night sky through a real Victorian telescope and learn more about astronomy from our knowledgeable team of curators and observatory assistants.
About Us
Airdrie Astronomical Association (AAA) was formed on 1st May 2009 by local space enthusiasts and we are proud to be the curators of the historic Airdrie Observatory. We hold weekly meetings between September and May that are open to everyone who has an interest in or wants to learn more about science, technology and our incredible universe.
We invite you to join us at one of our regular Friday meetings or come along to one of our events in the observatory. There is always something happening in our unique Observatory - from school visits, telescope tutorials and guest speakers, to open evenings, kids activities and special events.
Visitors are always welcome to come along on a Friday night to meet us and enjoy listening to one of our excellent speakers. For even more benefits why not find out about becoming a member. Click the button below for more information.
Friday Night
Meetings
Our Friday night meetings are a great opportunity to meet like minded people with an interest in astronomy and spaceflight.
Enjoy the weekly space news and a range of guest speakers who are experts in their subjects. We also have video nights and offer the opportunity for members to give presentations on subjects that interest them. New members are always very welcome so come along and join in the fun. Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult over 18.
We meet at New Wellwynd Parish Church, Wellwynd, Airdrie ML6 0AG.
FRIDAY EVENING AGENDA:
7:30 - 8:00pm - Space News
8:00pm - 8:30pm - Tea Break
8:30pm - 9:30pm - Main Talk
Airdrie Observatory is a fully-functioning and unique facility, and AAA are delighted to manage the facility on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council.
It is a great place to visit for all types of groups, societies and clubs and we use it throughout the year.
Our dedicated Curators can provide advice and hints and tips on all manner of space-related questions. Whether you are a complete beginner or have an existing interest in astronomy, a visit to the Observatory can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.
Observing
the Night Sky
What's on
Visitors are always welcome to join us at our Friday night meetings. No prior knowledge needed - Just bring your curiosity.
See what speakers we have coming up below.
6th February
Isabel Morrison
Orion Cassiopia
Join AAA treasurer, Isabel Morrison, for a guided tour of two of the night sky’s most recognisable constellations:
Orion and Cassiopeia.
Learn how to spot them, discover their stories, and why they’re favourites for winter stargazing.
13th February
The News Team
The Launch of Artemis 2
Tonight the Space News team present a joint Artemis II update, sharing clips and fresh mission insight as it happens.
Artemis II will be NASA’s first crewed lunar fly-by in over 50 years, sending four astronauts around the Moon and back on a 10-day test flight paving the way for future lunar exploration.
20th February
Dr Daniel Williams
TBA
Tonight we are delighted to welcome astronomer Daniel Williams explores some of the most violent events in the universe.
His research focuses on colliding black holes and neutron stars, the remnants of supernovae, whose immense explosions distort spacetime itself, creating gravitational waves that can be detected here on Earth.
27th February
Dr Alexander Mackinnon
Michael Scot
Don't miss tonight's meeting as Alexander Mackinnon from the University of Glasgow’s School of Physics & Astronomy joins us to explore the life of Michael Scot.
Known in legend and literature, this talk reveals his lesser-known but fascinating role in the history of science.
Becoming a member
Becoming a member is easy, simply pick up a membership form at one of our weekly meetings.
Benefits of becoming a member include
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borrowing books and equipment
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exclusive access to outings not advertised on the website or on Facebook
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opportunity to participate in observing the night sky
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access to Airdrie observatory outside library opening hours
and much more!
Fees are as follows:
Full Member (Waged / Working) : £15 per annum
Full Member (Unwaged / retired) : £10 per annum
Junior Members (Under 18) : £5 per annum
Family Membership : £25 per annum (Up to 2 Adults and all children under the age of 18)
We ask for a weekly donation towards the room hire of £1.00 from members, £2.00 for visitors, children under 18 are free.
We supply tea, coffee, soft drinks and biscuits for the tea break.
5 past curators from Airdrie Observatory
5 past curators from Airdrie Observatory