The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada

The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada was founded in 1868, and is Canada's leading astronomy organization bringing together over 4,000 enthusiastic amateurs, educators, and professionals. There are 29 Centres across Canada, which offer local programs and service in each and every province.

We are a non-profit, charitable organization devoted to the advancement of astronomy and allied sciences. Our members enjoy many areas of astronomy but participate mostly in visual astronomy and astrophotography.

RASC Roots

In 1868 a small group of amateur astronomers formed the Toronto Astronomy Club. In 1903, King Edward VII gave his permission for "Royal" to be included in the title and the Society became The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. There are many RASC Centres found in most major Canadian cities. The Regina Centre was formed in 1910 by a group of amateur astronomers in Regina that were interested in Halley's Comet. The Regina Centre was the first RASC Centre west of Toronto. With this long history the Centre has been promoting amateur astronomy in Regina and southern Saskatchewan and encouraging the general public to come out and view the night skies. Over the years many thousands of people from all walks of life have enjoyed and wondered at the views through our telescopes.

Our Mandate

The mandate of the RASC is to:

1. Stimulate interest and to promote and increase knowledge in astronomy and related sciences
2. Acquire and maintain equipment, libraries, and other property necessary for the pursuit of its aims
3. Publish journals, books, and other material containing information on the progress of astronomy and the work of the Society
4. Receive and administer gifts, donations, and bequests from members of the Society and others
5. Make contributions and render assistance to individuals and institutions engaged in the study and advancement of astronomy

Regina Centre Executive - 2012-2013

• President: Chris Beckett
• Vice President: Vacant
• Treasurer: Rob Sheppard
• Secretary: Len McDonald
• National Representative: Peter Hagar
• Past President: Shane Ludtke
• Councilor: Kevin Gates
• Councilor: Ross Parker
• Councilor: Mike O'Brien

Directors:

• Davin Observing Site- Dave Barrie
• Librarian- Ross Parker
• Kalium Observatory / Equipment - Ron Haughey
• Public Education- Len McDonald
• Computer Systems- Chris Beckett
• Newsletter Editor- Shane Ludtke