About the Minnesota Astronomical Society

In 1972, Minneapolis-based E&W Optical Company was a haven for Twin Cities amateur astronomers seeking advice, optics for their projects or for commercially produced telescopes and accessories.

That year, then-president of the 3M Club Astronomical Society, Jim Fox, placed a poster at E&W suggesting to readers that "An Amateur Astronomy Club May Be Right For You". A dozen potential members attended an organizing meeting in November of 1972 at the Science Museum of Minnesota. The 'Twin City Astronomy Club' was born.

From this humble beginning grew the Minnesota Astronomical Society. Today, more than thirty years later, membership in the MAS exceeds 450 and we are one of the largest and most active amateur astronomy organizations in the United States..

Within this section of the web site, you can learn about the MAS and our activities. Specific information includes:

A "frequently asked questions", or "FAQ" section addressing the most common inquiries about the Society.
An overview of the Society's monthly, business and special meetings.
Information regarding the Society's current leadership (including contact information), and a directory of other individuals responsible for various aspects of our activities.
The MAS constitution.
A brief history of the Society.
A handy media guide providing news organizations and other media outlets with basic information and facts about the MAS.