The Columbus Astronomical Society
The Columbus Astronomical Society
The Columbus Astronomical Society (CAS) is central Ohio's largest and oldest organization dedicated to the amateur study of astronomy. Since 1947, it has attracted members from every walk of life and all ages that share a passion for the night sky.
The CAS meets on the second Saturday of each month at historic Perkins Memorial Observatory near Delaware, Ohio. Visitors are welcomed to attend. Occasionally our meetings are held at a different location, so it is a good idea to confirm the time and place prior to departure. Perkins Observatory is located about 15 minutes north of Columbus on U.S. Route 23. The small entrance is about 1/4 mile south of the Olentangy River bridge (see map).
Monthly Meetings
The
CAS monthly meetings usually feature a guest
speaker or club member who will lecture on a topic of their
expertise. Guest speakers are typically professional astronomers,
authors, or other well known amateurs.
Weather permitting, the meetings also provide an opportunity for members to observe the night sky with their telescopes.
Public Events and Star Parties
The CAS provides assistance each weekend with the public educational programs held at Perkins Observatory. CAS volunteers help in many ways on these busy nights including setting up their personal telescopes on the lawn, providing tours of the facility, and operating the 32" Schottland telescope for the visitors.
The CAS periodically conducts public-oriented exhibitions away from Perkins. Many people get their first look through a telescope at these events. The programs also allow the public to discover more about amateur astronomy, including the wide variety of equipment that is used.
Telescope Making
Many CAS members are very active in the
craft of telescope making and will generously provide advise to
beginners. Even if you only have a passing interest in this phase
of the hobby, you will probably find some of the club's creations
fascinating.
There are many other services the club has to offer.
Here is a history of the Columbus Astromical Society written by Tony Hoenbrink, and here is a copy of the CAS constitution.
The 2008 officers and appointees for the CAS are:
President Tom Beck Vice President Jason Hissong Secretary Byron Winchell Treasurer Nirav Shah Trustee (Past President) Gary Burk Trustee Brad Hoehne Trustee Ted Saker Jr. Trustee Isaac Cruz Trustee Michael Packer Listmaster Doug Askew Newsletter Editor Joanne Konst Webmasters Bill Kramer
Jason Hissong
