Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society (MSAS) is an amateur astronomical society in the East Midlands of England.[1] It was formed in 1969.[2][3] It is based at Sherwood Observatory, a 61 cm mirror telescope[2] which it owns and operates.[1] The observatory lies 4 km south west of the centre of Mansfield on one of the highest points in the county of Nottinghamshire.[1]

The society is a member of The Federation of Astronomical Societies.[4]

Aims

The aims of the society are to:

• further the interests of Astronomy and related subjects within the local community[1]
• introduce the public to the subject of Astronomy[1]
• provide a forum for education in Astronomy and observational techniques through a collaboration with the University of Nottingham[1]
• provide members with the best observational equipment possible.[1]

Meetings

The society holds monthly members-only lecture meetings at the observatory, along with observing and training evenings for members.[5]

Outreach

The society runs a night school for those who wish to learn about astronomy and the universe. These are usually held at the observatory on Friday evenings.[6]

Funding

MSAS is a registered charity. It is funded through member subscriptions, fund raising events, public open evenings held at the society's Observatory, charitable donations and grants.[1]

Patrons

The patrons of the society are:

• Professor Sir Francis Graham Smith, 13th Astronomer Royal (1982-1990).[7]
• Professor Michael R. Merrifield, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham.[7]

See also

• List of astronomical societies

References

External links

• Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society Official website.
• Mansfield & Sutton Astronomical Society Yahoo Distribution Group.
• Federation of Astronomical Societies (FAS).