COLORADO RIVER ASTRONOMY CLUB

OBSERVING CLUBS

The following pins can be earned as a member of the astronomy club. These are the entry level pins. More pins can be earn in the advanced levels of knowledge and experience..

The Binocular Messier Club is for beginning observers as well as experienced amateurs. Beginning observers will find that it doesn't take an expensive telescope but only a simple pair of binoculars.

In observing the wonders of the universe, there are perhaps no more wondrous and beautiful objects as comets. Since the invention of the telescope hundreds of years ago, astronomers have continually searched for new comets.

The purpose of the Double Star Club is to introduce observers to 100 of the finest double and multiple stars in the heavens. All objects on this list were originally observed with a three-inch refractor using between 75X and 150X.

This program is well suited for the young, inexperienced observer as well as the older observer just getting into our hobby since no special observing skills are required

It does not require expensive equipment, only your two eyes.  Becoming a member of the Meteor Club only requires that you are willing to allocate some of your time to looking for nature's fireworks.

The purpose of these programs is to provide an orientation to the sky for novice astronomers. They require no special equipment (other than a planisphere and a reference for the brighter star names), and no prior knowledge.

The Deep Sky Binocular Club is a list of sixty selected non-Messier objects, and picks up where the Binocular Messier Club leaves off.

The purpose of this observing program is to experience the thrill that Galileo had when he was the first person to turn a telescope towards the sky.

The novice is sure to find some spectacular object pictured and designated by its "Messier Number" with the universal abbreviation "M". Of the myriads of star clusters and nebulae scattered over the sky only about 100 (perhaps 110 at most) can claim membership to this celebrated list.

The Universe Sampler observing program is a unique observing program designed specifically for the beginning observer. It is designed to expose the beginner to a sample of the many different types of objects that the Universe has to offer for our observing enjoyment.

The stated goal for the Observing Clubs is that they offer encouragement and certificates of accomplishment for demonstrating observing skills with a variety of instruments and objects.