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Weather at the RAS observatory

The benefits of joining the Remote Astronomical Society

What can I image in 30 seconds on RAS Equipment?

What can I image in 60 seconds on RAS Equipment?

The Remote Astronomical Society is an organization dedicated to advancing access to remote observing resources for the amateur astronomer. the Society has negotiated special research rates exclusely for members when using the RAS Observatory. The RAS Observatory provides internet access to high-quality professional-grade robotic telescopes for professional and amateur research projects and public use. The RAS Observatory is located at high altitude under the darkest skies in New Mexico - these dark skies enhance viewing and photographing a wide variety of astronomical objects.

Please review some of the unique features only available by becoming a member of the Remote Astronomical Society. You can’t find these benefits anywhere else regardless of price:

  • Numerous ideas for projects of real scientific merit.
  • Members who are experts in most aspects of amateur astronomy.
  • The opportunity to work as part of a multi-national team on projects of mutual interest.
  • Specialist newsgroups to offer assistance if required and to showcase your triumphs.
  • Help and support from experienced authors when the time comes to publish your work in astronomical magazines or society journals.
  • Special member discounts to access five different telescopes each with different specifications and FOV’s
  • The darkest skies in North America with imaging available on an average of 250 nights a year and using the highest quality equipment - telescopes, mounts and filters.

Testimonials

From users of the RAS Observatory Facilities

From our first night where you helped me through the set-up steps, I have been impressed with the equipment, the computerized programs, and most of all with you and the interest you take with me.
Edward Lunt		 The chance to employ the kind of first rate equipment offered at RAS is the stuff of dreams for a guy of "average" income like myself. But thanks to affordability and ease of access of RAS I was able to realize the dream under the dark New Mexico skies.
Jack E Locklar		 When I first logged on to use the scope I was immediately impressed with how straightforward the controls were set up. After a quick read of the 'getting started' sections I had my first photograph in a matter of minutes.
Glen Allen
I really appreciate not having to purchase any software; the use of my current web browser was all that I needed for complete control of the telescope, camera, and catalog search features. It just couldn't be more user friendly! Now anyone with an internet connection can access high quality instruments, in a dark sky location with a few simple mouse clicks.
Darrel Moon 		Even the most timid of amateurs should have no qualms about signing on to Arnie's site and doing pro-class imaging with some first class equipment.
Bob Genung		 As a high school teacher I can see the potential for using this when teaching astronomy and having the students do "real science and real research" during daylight hours here in Australia because of the service you are offering.
Tony Virgo

Membership dues and payment methods

Membership in Society operates on a monthly basis - the membership dues are $39.98 per month which includes two hours of observing and imaging time, to be used during the month, on any of the five telescopes to which we negotiated access.

There is also a special discounted research rate for RAS members who wish to particpate in ICRAR sponsored research projects.

RAS puts a strong emphasis on team work. Many current users work in small teams where members share a common interest. Where teams of three or four work together and share the cost the effective hourly rate can be as low as $5.00 per hour!

If you want to purchase additional time on the other four "Rent-a-Scope" telescopes you will be able to do so at 15% off the normal rates.

Remote Astronomical Society

Front Page

Imaging Competition

Members Images

Members Resources

News

Remote Observing

Specialist groups

Using the telescopes

RAS Observatory

If you have any queries about the financial aspects of the RAS Observatory of New Mexico please email Arnie Rosner

If you have any queries about the astronomical aspects of the RAS Observatory of New Mexico please email Martin Nicholson