"To know that we know what we know, and to know that we do not know what we do not know, that is true knowledge."
Nicolaus Copernicus

   Quick Links

• Home Page
• Telescope Basics
• Monthly Observing Highlights
• Request a Star Party for your Group or School
• Request a Educationl Visit by an Astronomer to Your Club or School
• This Month's Sky Map
• Observing Sites (maps)
• The Science of ASLC
  • Asteroid LightCurves
  • Minor Planet Discovery
  • Variable Stars
  • Occultation Timing
• Telescope Making
• Light Pollution Facts
• Club By-Laws
• ASLC's Observatory
• Upcoming Clinics
• Astronomical Glossary
• Join ASLC

 
Monthly Observing Opportunities

ASLC MoonGaze

Probably the easiest way to join us for some casual observing is by coming to the International Delights Cafe (NE corner of Idaho and El Paseo in Las Cruces) on Saturday nights close to a first quarter moon. In addition to observing lunar features, we observer brighter planets such as Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus. Observing begins at dusk and continues for about two hours. The event is free and kids and adults are welcome. If you are unfamiliar with Las Cruces, a map can be downloaded from the Observing Sites page.

Dark Sky Observing (DSO)

Once or twice each month, ASLC members pack up their gear and drive away from the city lights to see the wonders of the universe through the prestine dark skies of Southern New Mexico. The public is invited to join us. There are almost always extra telescopes for visitors to view through (often very nice ones), and the astronomers are delighted to share views of galaxies, nebula and star clusters. DSOs are conducted on Saturday nights closest to the New Moon. Caravaning to the DSO site is available upon request. Contact the club President <president@aslc-nm.org> for details. Be sure to dress warmly, and leave your flashlight at home.

Special Events and Star Party Requests

When cosmic events warrant it, ASLC holds special public viewings. We try to have these viewings publicized in the local newspaper and on the rado, but it's probably best to check the Home page or the ASLC calendar. Observing sessions conducted by the NMSU Astronomy Department and the National Public Observatory (NPO) are often also listed on these pages.

ASLC supports the community with star parties for schools, scouts, and other organizations. If you are interested in scheduling a star party for your organization, please look here.