Welcome to the Baton Rouge Astronomical Society home page! This site contains links to monthly observing information, Night Visions (our monthly newsletter), our interactive forum where you can read and ask questions, and view astrophotos taken by our members, . We also link to dozens of astronomy related websites of interest to those of us who love the stars.
We hope you enjoy your visit!
News and Events
Meetings are usually held on the 2nd Monday of the month at the HRPO (Highland Road Park Observatory), at 7:00 pm. However, this time and place is subject to change. Information about meetings is included in the club newsletter NIGHT VISIONS, see Newsletter Archives in the BRAS Links Menu . For information you can also call the Observatory at (225) 768-9948 during office hours, or contact:
Public Information Officer - public_relations@brastro.org
Merrill Hess - (225) 567-3450 (home), merrillhess@gmail.com
Outreach Requests, outreach@brastro.org
For information on the many monthly events conducted by HRPO, here is its up-to-date Calendar of Events.
You can also find these events posted in our monthly newsletter.
BRAS is an organization created and sustained by people who share a common interest in amateur astronomy. Established in 1981, with about 95 members currently, BRAS is a meeting place for amateur astronomers in and around the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. Our membership is a varied collection of adults, and some children, some new to amateur astronomy who are seeking to learn the basics such as, “How do I learn about the night sky? How does the solar system really work? What is a black hole? What is the best telescope for me? How do I get started in astrophotography?” Other members may be quite experienced in such areas as the visual night sky, cosmology, observing techniques, setting circles, astrophotography, optics, and telescope making. Most members, however, are amateurs with a love of the night sky who enjoy sharing their interest with others.
Programs are varied and can cover many different topics. Films on solar system exploration and the Universe have been viewed and discussed. Exhibits of various astronomical charts, books, computer programs have been brought by members. Other activities include stargazing at the Highland Road Park Observatory and at a members only dark sky site. Participation in regional observing events, such as the Deep South Star Gaze (Fall) and the Messier Marathon (Spring). Special programs for the members and the public such as Astronomy Day and Space Week. Members can participate in a wide variety of observing programs and awards offered by the Astronomical League, of which membership in BRAS entitles you to.
If you would like to join BRAS, or would like to get some more information, attend a meeting, or fill out a Membership Application, printable from our Links.
Club Calendar
2025 Officers
- President: Don Weinell
- VP and Outreach: Ben Toman
- Secretary: Scott Cadwallader
- Treasurer: Trey Anding
| The Baton Rouge Astronomical Society, Inc. is a member or supporter of | ||
|---|---|---|
 The Astronomical League |
 DarkSky International |
 Night Sky Network |
BRAS is a proud partner of the Highland Road Park Observatory
Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Shoot us an email 