Membership
Membership in the N.A.A. is open to anyone with an interest in astronomy. Yearly dues are $24 for an individual and $36 for a family membership. A family must reside at one address, and a family membership entitles all family members to inclusion in all N.A.A. activities.
Don’t feel that you have to know all about astronomy to join the N.A.A. Many of our members knew little about the subject when they joined; they joined to learn more about astronomy by sharing it with more experienced amateurs, a method often more fun and efficient than studying on one’s own.
For Members
One of the main benefits of NAA membership is sharing evenings of observing the wonders of the heavens with other members of the club.
Members-Only Observing
Observing sessions that are members-only; both at our AEC and at the dark sites and elsewhere.
Dark Sites
Parcels of land more distant from the bright night skies of Chicagoland than our Astronomy Education Center; they are available for members to use on any night.
Observatory Training
Members can train on the operation of either club observatory, and earn the ability to use them independently, on any night that the club doesn’t have an activity scheduled there.
The Focal Plane
The Focal Plane is sent to members in advance of each monthly meeting and provides a synopsis of past, present, and upcoming NAA activities; by reading it each month you can keep up with what is going on in the club.
Lending Library
The NAA has quite an impressive library of astronomical books, periodicals, and DVDs available for loan to members. Search the Library
Groups.io
The NAA discussion group on Groups.io is a members-only Internet service where we can post messages to other members; it is an excellent resource for both discussion and connecting with each other on a real-time basis.
Activities For Members
Our Members’ Services Officer is in charge of planning field trips and other activities for members. In addition, the MSO coordinates group discounts available through the club on many astronomical accessories including books, calendars, and observing handbooks.
Astronomical League
This federation of astronomy clubs offers a newsletter, sponsors conventions, and provides many other benefits. N.A.A. members can join through the club and receive all League benefits for $9.00.
How To Join
Our regular membership year begins in September, but you may join at any time. Members who joined during the year will be asked to renew at September, but their renewal rate will be reduced to “refund” the unused fraction of the year.
If you have any questions, you may contact the club Registrar via e-mail at registrar@naperastro.org.