Hamilton Astronomical Society
Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato
Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Hamilton Astronomical Society, where stargazing enthusiasts gather to explore celestial phenomena through powerful telescopes. Our sessions feature advanced equipment like the 600mm Classical Cassegrain and 355mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain, alongside a radio telescope for unique observations. Held on the first and third Wednesdays of every month (except January), meetings start at 8:30pm during daylight saving and 7:30pm otherwise. Affordable entry—adults $15, children $5—makes astronomy accessible. Join us in Hamilton for an engaging astronomy club experience in Waikato.
Your Guide to Hamilton Astronomical Society
The Hamilton Astronomical Society plays a vital role in the Waikato region's hobbies and special interests scene, bringing together passionate individuals keen on astronomy. As a dedicated astronomy club, it provides a platform for members and visitors to delve into the mysteries of the universe through hands-on stargazing and observation sessions. These gatherings foster a sense of wonder and discovery, allowing participants to connect with like-minded people while learning about stars, planets, and beyond. The society's focus on practical astronomy experiences makes it a cornerstone for those interested in celestial exploration in the local community.
Central to the society's offerings is its impressive array of equipment, including the 600mm Classical Cassegrain for detailed deep-sky viewing, the 355mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain for versatile observations, a 300mm Dobsonian for wide-field sights, a 200mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain for beginners, and even a radio telescope for detecting cosmic signals. Sessions occur on the first and third Wednesday of every month, excluding January, with timings adjusted for seasons: 8:30pm during daylight saving and 7:30pm the rest of the year. Entry is straightforward and budget-friendly, at $15 for adults and $5 for children, with cash payments only—no EFTPOS available. This setup ensures that astronomy in Waikato remains approachable and engaging for all levels of interest.
Venue Details
Located at 183 Brymer Road, Rotokauri, Hamilton 3289, the Hamilton Astronomical Society's venue is ideally situated in the heart of Waikato, offering clear views of the southern hemisphere's skies away from urban light pollution. Rotokauri provides a peaceful, semi-rural setting that enhances the stargazing experience, making it a perfect spot for astronomy club activities in the region. The Waikato area's community-oriented environment supports such hobbies, with the society's location contributing to its role as a hub for celestial education and observation. This regional context underscores the club's commitment to promoting astronomy as a shared interest, drawing locals to its monthly events under the stars.
Upcoming Events
Wed 04 Mar
07:30 pmStargazing Sessions at Hamilton Astronomical Society
Your Guide to Viewings The Hamilton Astronomical Society fosters a passion for the night sky through hands-on stargazing sessions, bringing together people keen on astronomy in a relaxed, community-focused setting. These viewings offer a chance to peer through powerful telescopes and connect with fellow enthusiasts, emphasising shared wonder and learning about the universe. 🌌 Each session involves guided observations using the society's impressive equipment lineup, including a 600mm Classical Cassegrain, 355mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain, 300mm Dobsonian, 200mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain, and even a radio telescope. Participants can spot planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects, with society members on hand to explain what you're seeing. It's open to all ages, making it suitable for families, beginners, or anyone curious about astronomy. No prior experience is required—just bring your sense of curiosity. Sessions last 90 minutes and run on the first and third Wednesday of every month, except January. During daylight saving, they start at 8:30pm; the rest of the year, at 7:30pm. Entry is $15 for adults and $5 for children, with no EFTPOS available, so cash is recommended. This affordable pricing keeps it accessible for everyone looking to build community ties through a shared hobby. Participating in these viewings strengthens local connections in Waikato, as attendees chat about discoveries and swap tips under the stars. It's a welcoming way to engage with astronomy, promoting education and social bonds in a low-pressure environment. Highlights include: Open to all ages, from children to adults, for family-friendly evenings Access to professional-grade telescopes like the 600mm Classical Cassegrain for detailed views Guided sessions that explain celestial sights, enhancing understanding 90-minute duration, perfect for an engaging yet manageable night out Affordable fees: $15 adults, $5 children, paid in cash only Monthly schedule on first and third Wednesdays, excluding January These gatherings highlight the society's commitment to making astronomy approachable, helping participants feel part of a supportive network while igniting a lifelong interest in the cosmos. Where It All Happens Located in Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato, the Hamilton Astronomical Society's site serves as the dedicated hub for these stargazing viewings. This spot in the Waikato region provides clear skies ideal for observations, away from city lights to maximise visibility of the stars. As the club's home base, it hosts these regular events, fostering a sense of community among locals. Rotokauri offers a peaceful setting that enhances the experience, allowing focus on the heavens. For directions or queries, reach out via email at hassec@has.org.nz or phone +64 7 8498522. Check the website https://www.has.org.nz for updates. It's a central Waikato location, easy for Hamilton residents to access and join in the astronomical fun.
Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato
Wed 18 Mar
07:30 pmStargazing Sessions at Hamilton Astronomical Society
Your Guide to Viewings The Hamilton Astronomical Society fosters a passion for the night sky through hands-on stargazing sessions, bringing together people keen on astronomy in a relaxed, community-focused setting. These viewings offer a chance to peer through powerful telescopes and connect with fellow enthusiasts, emphasising shared wonder and learning about the universe. 🌌 Each session involves guided observations using the society's impressive equipment lineup, including a 600mm Classical Cassegrain, 355mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain, 300mm Dobsonian, 200mm Meade Schmidt Cassegrain, and even a radio telescope. Participants can spot planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects, with society members on hand to explain what you're seeing. It's open to all ages, making it suitable for families, beginners, or anyone curious about astronomy. No prior experience is required—just bring your sense of curiosity. Sessions last 90 minutes and run on the first and third Wednesday of every month, except January. During daylight saving, they start at 8:30pm; the rest of the year, at 7:30pm. Entry is $15 for adults and $5 for children, with no EFTPOS available, so cash is recommended. This affordable pricing keeps it accessible for everyone looking to build community ties through a shared hobby. Participating in these viewings strengthens local connections in Waikato, as attendees chat about discoveries and swap tips under the stars. It's a welcoming way to engage with astronomy, promoting education and social bonds in a low-pressure environment. Highlights include: Open to all ages, from children to adults, for family-friendly evenings Access to professional-grade telescopes like the 600mm Classical Cassegrain for detailed views Guided sessions that explain celestial sights, enhancing understanding 90-minute duration, perfect for an engaging yet manageable night out Affordable fees: $15 adults, $5 children, paid in cash only Monthly schedule on first and third Wednesdays, excluding January These gatherings highlight the society's commitment to making astronomy approachable, helping participants feel part of a supportive network while igniting a lifelong interest in the cosmos. Where It All Happens Located in Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato, the Hamilton Astronomical Society's site serves as the dedicated hub for these stargazing viewings. This spot in the Waikato region provides clear skies ideal for observations, away from city lights to maximise visibility of the stars. As the club's home base, it hosts these regular events, fostering a sense of community among locals. Rotokauri offers a peaceful setting that enhances the experience, allowing focus on the heavens. For directions or queries, reach out via email at hassec@has.org.nz or phone +64 7 8498522. Check the website https://www.has.org.nz for updates. It's a central Waikato location, easy for Hamilton residents to access and join in the astronomical fun.
Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato
Contact Info
"Connect with Hamilton Astronomical Society in Rotokauri, Hamilton, Waikato! Reach out to join our vibrant astronomy community, get updates on events, or learn how to get involved. Contact us via email, phone, or social media for more details."
hassec@has.org.nz
+64 7 8498522