Thu 6th - Mon 10th March, 2008

The dark skies on the south coast of the Isle of Wight provided a brilliant backdrop for the inaugural Isle of Wight Star Party organised by the island's Vectis Astronomical Society (VAS) in association with the Southern Area Group of Astronomical Societies (SAGAS). About forty five astronomers travelled from as far as Devon and Cambridge for the event, which was held at the Brighstone Holiday Centre, between Thursday 6th March and Monday 11th March, 2008.

(photo - John Murrell looking through Celestron C14 - Credit Lucy Rogers)

The RAS has recently announced funding opportunities for the International Year of Astronomy.

"The RAS welcomes applications for grants to support activities in the UK forming part of the International Year of Astronomy(IYA 2009). The vision of IYA2009 is to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the Universe through the day- and night-time sky, and realise a personal sense of wonder and discovery.

Societies that have recently joined the Federation or new Society Officers may be unaware that the Federation operates a discussion forum using a Yahoo Group. Officers of member societies are encouraged to join up to this egroup to participate in discussions, and share information. It is also used to notify members about up-coming events of general interest.

To join visit the website  http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/fedastro

Please note your society name and your position in the society when joining, to speed the approval process.

The FAS would like welcome two new member societies:

HantsAstro

Kielder Observatory Astronomical Society