ASP

Astronomical Society of Pacific

The Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP) was founded in 1889 by a group of Northern California professional and amateur astronomers after joining together to view a rare total solar eclipse. The ASP's earliest purpose was to disseminate astronomical information -- a mission which has flourished with astronomers' inexhaustible exploration of the universe. The ASP has become the largest general astronomy society in the world, with members from over 70 nations. The ASP Board of Directors and the Advisory Council are composed of members of the astronomical, educational, and amateur communities.

One benefit of association for members is the online publication, Mercury magazine. This is published quarterly to keep our members abreast of developments in astronomy. Our online store, the AstroShop, offers an array of educational products for teachers and anyone interested in spreading the appreciation and understanding of astronomy. The ASP's Annual Meeting is currently focused on providing a forum for the astronomy and space science education and public outreach community to gather and advance their work.

We are a recognized leader in the field of astronomy education. Our free teachers' newsletter, The Universe in the Classroom, is posted on the web. With the support of nationally recognized corporations and individual benefactors, the ASP sponsors Project ASTRO, an innovative program to pair amateur and professional astronomers with teachers and classes. The Astronomical Society of the Pacific increases the understanding and appreciation of astronomy by engaging scientists, educators, enthusiasts and the public to advance science and science literacy.

The ASP's professional astronomer members are a key component of our Society's membership. It is their desire to share the rich rewards of their work with the public which permits the ASP to act as a bridge, explaining the mysteries of the universe. These dedicated scientists regularly donate their time and energy to speak at our Annual Meeting, write for Mercury magazine, and to create products for us to market and distribute. For these members, the ASP publishes the Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (PASP), a well-respected monthly scientific journal. We also provide an important service to the astronomical community through our affordable Conference Series volumes which publish the proceedings of important scientific conferences.

As a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, the ASP must rely on membership dues and donations to sustain and expand our many education and public outreach programs and activities. Contributions in the form of cash gifts, gifts of appreciated securities and gifts-in-kind directly support our educational programs and are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Businesses are invited to support the ASP by becoming a Corporate Affiliate. Individuals may also wish to establish or contribute to one of the many ASP endowment funds. These funds, often initiated in someone's memory or honor, generate support for ASP programs, awards or lectures. Through these giving programs, our individual and corporate friends ensure that the ASP's programs continue to educate the general public about astronomy.

www.astrosociety.org