About ASWA

The Astronomical Society of Western Australia (Inc.) - better known as ASWA - is the premier Astronomical society in the state of Western Australia. We are located in Perth, the world's most isolated capital city (at roughly 32šS 116šE), but are open to Membership from all over the state, the country, the world, or even the Universe. If you check a satellite snap of the Earth at night, you'll see us as that lonely dot on the west coast of the vast, dark expanse that is Australia.

ASWA was established in May 1950 and has recently celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in the year 2000. In commemoration of our Jubilee a history of ASWA is being written by several members but if you want a sneak preview, be sure to read Genesis Plus 10" - an eye-witness account of our early years written by a foundation and Honorary Life Member, Ron Ashe. Ron's account of ASWA's early years reveals our unique link with John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth. An expanded account of the events leading up to this occasion may be read in Ron's telling of ASWA's involvement in the MoonWatch program of the late 1950's and early 1960's, which monitored those new-fangled artificial satellites that whizzed around the world at unimaginable speeds.

As in our early days, ASWA continues to strive to bring the joy of Astronomy within reach of the public and to provide a forum for amateur astronomers of all persuasions to gather together and enjoy this unique hobby. Our aims are :

• The stimulation of a popular interest in Astronomy.

• The association of observers, especially the possessors of small telescopes, for mutual help and their organization in the work of Astronomical observation.

• To promote Astronomical research by amateurs.

We are active in public astronomy and provide a wide range of services to our members, including our Journal The Sidereal Times, an extensive library of books and journals, a telescope loan program, monthly meetings, special interest groups and various other activities.

Do you want to know more about ASWA? Please browse through our website or simply send us a message with your inquiry.

This page was last updated on 24 November, 2009