About
About Redditch Astronomical Society
A friendly community of amateur astronomers in Redditch, Bromsgrove and the surrounding area.
Who we are
Redditch Astronomical Society (RAS) is a group of amateur astronomers in the Redditch and Bromsgrove area. Our aim is simple: to provide a friendly community for anyone who shares an interest in astronomy and the night sky.
Our members range from people who have just bought their first pair of binoculars to experienced observers and astrophotographers. Nobody is expected to be an expert, and questions are always welcome.
What we do
Monthly meetings
We meet on the first Tuesday of each month (except August), from 7pm to 9pm, usually at the Windmill Community Centre in Redditch. Meetings cover a wide range of astronomy topics for all levels of experience, from guest speakers and professional astronomers to member talks and open evenings.
Recent speakers have included Prof. Nial Tanvir on the Big Bang, Andrew Thornett on amateur radio astronomy and Gary Poyner on the black hole binary OJ287. See our past events.
Observing
When the skies are clear we get outside. We have held observing sessions and star parties at Morton Stanley Park in Redditch, often after a meeting, and members are always happy to help you use a telescope.
Astrophotography
Many of our members image the night sky, from the Moon and planets to distant galaxies. We run practical workshops and talks on astrophotography, and hold photo competitions such as the 2026 Eclipse Photograph Competition.
Outreach and public events
We love sharing the sky with our community. Public events such as sidewalk astronomy sessions and our Discover the Night Sky evening are open to everyone.
Workshops, trips and socials
Alongside talks we run telescope workshops (including our popular "what to do with that new Christmas telescope" evening), trips such as our visit to the National Space Centre, and social nights including our annual curry and quiz.
Beginners are welcome
You don't need a telescope, and you don't need to know anything about astronomy to come along. Many of us started with nothing more than curiosity. Read our beginner's guide or just come to a meeting and say hello.