Who We Are

CAA membership is open to the public. There are no special requirements to join, only an interest and desire to learn more about issues astronomical and to share that learning with others.

The CAA is ideally suited for the average person, offering the beginner of all ages a way to stay informed of the latest developments in the world's oldest science.

Our members range from junior high school students to senior citizens. CAA expertise runs the gamut from beginner to professional astronomer.

The CAA is also a charter member of the Ohio Turnpike Astronomers Association (OTAA), a statewide consortium of amateur astronomer associations sponsoring conventions each summer.

Monthly Meetings

Our monthly meetings are held on the second Monday of every month (except December) at 7:30 p.m. at the Rocky River Nature Center; 24000 Valley Parkway; North Olmsted, Ohio, in the Cleveland Metroparks. Meetings begin with a brief business meeting followed by a refreshment and social break to discuss astronomical issues with other members. A lecture is presented by a CAA member or invited guest on subjects ranging from "Astronomy on the Internet" to "Amateur Telescope Making" or "Updates on Space Exploration Activities." Information on monthly meetings, speakers, and current astronomical events are described in the CAA newsletter, The Observer and on this Web site.

Public Programs & Star Parties

Our programs are open to the general public. The programs are usually held in one of the Cleveland Metroparks or Medina County Metropark System, and at our observatory outside Spencer, Ohio. The programs typically begin with a presentation of an astronomy-related subject. Following the program, a star party is held (weather permitting).

So, what's a star party? Many times during the year, and following public programs, members of the CAA bring their telescopes out and allow the general public to view lunar, planetary, and deep sky objects. It is a great opportunity to look through different telescopes and compare them.

Membership Includes:

• A subscription to the CAA monthly newsletter, The Observer (optional extra cost for printed edition vs. online access)
• Group discounts on subscriptions to Sky & Telescope and Astronomy magazines, the Observer's Handbook of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, and other special offers
• Access to CAA loaner telescopes and the CAA Library
• Access to the CAA Observatory and its telescopes (with training)
• Advice and assistance from experienced amateur astronomers, many of whom are also members of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers (ALPO is not for the dogs!), the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO), or the Astronomical League