The American Astronomical Society is North America’s leading professional group for astronomers and space scientists. Since its founding in 1899, the AAS has operated out of Washington, DC, and now serves about 8,200 members worldwide.
They advance research, run education programs, and offer professional development for their community. You’ll find members from all over the globe, each bringing something unique to the table.
The AAS focuses on sharing and improving humanity’s scientific understanding of the Universe. That’s their guiding star, so to speak.
They go about this in a few main ways. First up, they publish top scientific journals like the Astronomical Journal and the Astrophysical Journal series. These publications keep the world up to date on discoveries and archive important findings.
Twice a year, members come together at meetings and through special divisions. These events spark collaboration and let people swap ideas across different astronomy fields.
The AAS also steps up for the scientific community at national and international levels. They work with other societies, push for research funding, and advocate for smart science policy.
Training and mentorship matter here, too. The society supports early-career astronomers and encourages folks from underrepresented backgrounds to get involved.
Their educational outreach programs, like Astronomy Ambassadors, try to boost science literacy and inspire young people to consider careers in astronomy or engineering.
Back in 1899, George Ellery Hale helped launch what would become the American Astronomical Society. At first, it went by the name “Astronomical and Astrophysical Society of America.”
The early days saw plenty of debate, especially about the society’s name. In 1909, some members wanted to switch to “American Astronomical Society”—they were hashing out the differences between astronomy and astrophysics.
These debates showed just how much people cared about scientific independence and what counted as astronomy. Eventually, they settled on the name we know today, cementing their role as the main professional astronomy group in North America.
Over the decades, the AAS has grown. It started small but now brings together experts from all sorts of scientific backgrounds.
The AAS welcomes about 8,200 members from a mix of scientific fields. Sure, most are astronomers, but you’ll also find physicists, mathematicians, geologists, and engineers who care about astronomy.
Modern space science really thrives on this mix of perspectives. You need all kinds of expertise to make sense of the universe.
Members get perks like discounted journals, cheaper meeting registrations, and access to the AAS Directory. There are free publications too, including the biweekly AAS News Digest and Physics Today.
Professional development is a big deal here. Members can apply for International Travel Grants or join committees like the Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy and the Committee on the Status of Minorities in Astronomy.
The AAS runs its headquarters out of Washington, DC. This puts them right where national science policy decisions happen.
The Executive Office in DC keeps things running smoothly and supports members. If you need a place for a professional meeting, you can even rent space at their facility.
Being in the capital helps the AAS advocate for research funding and keep tabs on science legislation. The staff tracks policy issues and lets members know when it’s time to speak up for the community.
From this hub, the society manages its publications and works with other scientific organizations. The headquarters acts as the nerve center for everything the AAS does, both in North America and beyond.
Since its start in 1899, the American Astronomical Society has leaned on both brilliant scientists and strong leaders. Their leadership includes elected officers, trustees, and some truly influential members who have changed the face of astronomy.
George Ellery Hale, one of the first presidents, didn’t just help start the AAS—he also founded big observatories like Mount Wilson. His work really put the society on the map.
Harlow Shapley led the AAS during a time of big changes. At Harvard, he helped us understand the Milky Way’s structure and size in ways nobody had before.
Maarten Schmidt, before his time as president, made huge discoveries about quasars. His research changed how astronomers look at distant objects and the early universe.
Robert P. Kirshner brought his expertise in supernovae to the AAS presidency. He played a major role in research that led to Nobel Prize-winning work on cosmic acceleration.
A group of professional astronomers, wanting to move the field forward, founded the AAS in 1899. They saw the need for a group focused on scientific collaboration.
George Ellery Hale stood out among the founders. He pushed for the construction of big telescopes and made sure the society valued observational astronomy.
Annie Jump Cannon really broke barriers as the first female officer, serving as treasurer from 1912 to 1919. For decades, she was the only woman on the executive board.
Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin changed stellar astronomy with her groundbreaking work on what stars are made of. She went on to lead a department at Harvard and mentored many who followed.
Christine Jones made big strides in X-ray astronomy, especially with her research on galaxy clusters and black holes. Her work has shaped how we understand cosmic structures.
Riccardo Giacconi opened up X-ray astronomy and later won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2002. His ideas about space-based telescopes gave astronomers new ways to see the universe.
These folks didn’t just make discoveries—they set the stage for today’s research and exploration.
Dara Norman is the current AAS President, serving from June 2024 to June 2026. She brings a background in astronomical instrumentation and data science.
The Board of Trustees handles the society’s big decisions. Marcel Agüeros is President-Elect, and Dawn Gelino is Senior Vice President.
Kevin Marvel has been the Chief Executive Officer since 2006, keeping things steady. The leadership team also includes vice presidents, a treasurer, and a secretary, each with their own responsibilities.
At-large trustees make sure the membership’s voice gets heard. This setup helps the society stay flexible and responsive to its diverse community.
The AAS runs several divisions, each focused on a unique corner of space science. These divisions dig into planetary exploration, movement of celestial bodies, high-energy phenomena, and laboratory-based research.
The Division for Planetary Sciences is the biggest special interest group within the AAS. Since 1968, it’s grown from focusing just on solar system research to covering a lot more ground.
Members study planets, moons, comets, asteroids, and anything else orbiting the Sun. They look at planetary processes and even explore extrasolar planetary systems.
A group of astronomers, including Carl Sagan, started the DPS because they saw a need for more focus on solar system research. It filled a big gap in the field.
Today, DPS members work with space missions exploring Mars, Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings, and more. They connect ground-based observations with space-based discoveries to push planetary science forward.
The Division on Dynamical Astronomy studies how things move in space. They focus on celestial mechanics—basically, how gravity shapes the paths of planets, stars, and other objects.
DDA members look at asteroid paths, planetary orbits, and how stars move in galaxies. They also study how the interstellar medium and galaxies themselves shift and rotate.
Their work is crucial for planning space missions. Mission designers rely on these calculations to send spacecraft to far-off destinations.
DDA members team up with physicists, mathematicians, and engineers. By working together, they tackle some of the trickiest problems in space exploration.
The High Energy Astrophysics Division digs into the wildest, most energetic stuff in the universe. HEAD members study things like black holes, neutron stars, and gamma-ray bursts.
They use space telescopes to spot X-rays and gamma rays from these extreme events. The division holds meetings every year or two so members can share what they’ve found.
HEAD hands out the Rossi Prize for outstanding research and the Schramm Award for science journalism. Members stay in the loop with a twice-yearly electronic newsletter.
HEAD also works closely with particle physics and gravitational wave researchers. This teamwork helps us understand the universe’s most intense environments.
The Laboratory Astrophysics Division connects what happens in Earth labs to what goes on in space. LAD members recreate space conditions in the lab to study atomic and molecular processes.
They experiment with matter under extreme temperatures, pressures, and radiation—conditions common in stars and interstellar space. This hands-on work gives astronomers data they just can’t get from observation alone.
Lab results help test theories about stars and planets. Researchers measure atomic spectra and chemical reactions, which helps astronomers decode light from faraway galaxies.
LAD also helps space missions by testing materials in space-like environments. Their work is the backbone for interpreting discoveries from telescopes and probes.
The AAS also supports divisions that focus on the Sun and the history of astronomy. These groups keep solar physics research moving forward and help preserve astronomy’s rich heritage.
The Solar Physics Division brings together scientists who study the Sun and its effects on our solar system. SPD members research solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and solar wind—all of which can impact Earth.
Each year, the SPD holds meetings where researchers share new insights into solar activity and space weather. Their publications help us understand how solar radiation messes with satellite communications and power grids.
Solar physicists use both ground-based telescopes and space missions to keep an eye on the Sun. They track sunspot cycles and monitor the Sun’s shifting magnetic field.
The division works with NASA and other agencies to plan solar observation missions. These partnerships help us learn how the Sun affects everything from planetary atmospheres to climate patterns.
The Historical Astronomy Division preserves and explores the development of astronomical knowledge throughout human history. HAD members dive into ancient observatories, historical star catalogs, and the lives of pioneering astronomers.
Members look at how different cultures understood celestial movements and built calendars based on what they saw in the sky. They also study historical instruments like astrolabes and early telescopes, which played a huge role in shaping astronomical discoveries.
Researchers analyze old observatory records and manuscripts that document past astronomical events. Their work helps modern astronomers figure out long-term changes in stellar positions and brightness.
At AAS meetings, the HAD organizes sessions where historians present research on famous astronomers and the discoveries that shaped modern astronomy. This work forges a link between today’s space research and centuries of human curiosity about the cosmos.
The American Astronomical Society puts out several leading scientific journals that highlight new research across the space sciences. These publications act as primary resources for astronomical discoveries, planetary science findings, and astrophysical research that can impact commercial space exploration.
The Astrophysical Journal stands as the flagship publication of the American Astronomical Society. This peer-reviewed journal features research on stellar physics, galaxy formation, and cosmic phenomena.
Scientists submit thousands of articles every year. Editors maintain strict standards through expert peer review.
The journal comes in multiple formats to serve different research needs:
Research published here often shapes spacecraft design and mission planning. Commercial space companies actually reference these findings when developing new tech for space tourism and exploration.
Founded in 1849, The Astronomical Journal became an AAS publication in 1941. The journal focuses on observational astronomy and developing new instruments.
It emphasizes practical techniques and observations, like spacecraft tracking, celestial navigation, and orbital mechanics.
Commercial space ventures use research from this journal to plan flight paths and better understand space environments.
Distinguished editors like Benjamin Boss and Dirk Brouwer have shaped its reputation. Today’s editorial team works hard to publish time-sensitive discoveries quickly.
The Planetary Science Journal is the newest addition to AAS publications. It quickly gained a strong impact factor, ranking highest in planetary sciences.
The journal covers research on planets, moons, asteroids, and other solar system bodies. Studies published here directly inform space tourism destinations and mission safety protocols.
Commercial space companies rely on planetary science research to assess landing sites and environmental conditions. The journal publishes findings about Mars exploration, lunar surface conditions, and asteroid mining potential.
Topics include atmospheric studies, surface geology, and planetary protection protocols. These findings help shape rules for commercial space activities and tourist safety.
The American Astronomical Society runs multiple media platforms and publishing partnerships that connect professional astronomers with the public. These initiatives range from established print publications to digital content platforms that translate complex research into something more accessible.
Sky & Telescope is one of the most recognized consumer astronomy publications out there. The magazine reaches amateur astronomers and space enthusiasts with monthly issues featuring observing guides, equipment reviews, and breaking discoveries.
The publication keeps strong ties with the AAS community. Professional astronomers contribute articles and research that get adapted for general audiences. This creates a bridge between academic research and public interest in space science.
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The magazine’s digital side extends its reach through online articles, mobile apps, and interactive star charts. Subscribers get access to premium content, including detailed observing guides and advanced astrophotography tutorials.
Willmann-Bell specializes in technical astronomy publications for both professionals and serious amateurs. The publisher focuses on mathematical astronomy, telescope making, and advanced observing techniques.
Their catalog includes specialized texts on orbital mechanics, celestial navigation, and precision telescope construction. These books fill a niche between academic textbooks and general interest astronomy reads.
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The company collaborates closely with AAS members who author many of these technical works. This partnership brings the latest astronomical knowledge to dedicated amateurs who take on serious research projects.
AAS Nova serves as the society’s main digital outreach platform. The website publishes research highlights, conference summaries, and easy-to-understand explanations of new astronomical discoveries.
The platform targets science journalists, educators, and curious members of the public. Writers keep the articles accessible while sticking to scientific accuracy. This helps bridge the gap between peer-reviewed research and public understanding.
AAS Nova puts out biweekly tip sheets for media outlets through the society’s press release service. These summaries help journalists spot newsworthy research and get background info.
The platform teams up with Astrobites to create content bridges between different astronomy communities. Together, these digital efforts make sure groundbreaking research reaches beyond the academic world.
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The American Astronomical Society hosts two major meetings each year, bringing together thousands of astronomers and space scientists. These gatherings feature cutting-edge research presentations, networking opportunities, and announcements of significant space discoveries that can shape commercial space development.
The AAS puts on two big conferences every year that anchor the astronomical community. The winter meeting usually happens in January, and the summer meeting takes place in June.
Recent meetings have drawn thousands of participants from all over the world. The 243rd meeting happened in New Orleans from January 7-11, 2024. The 245th meeting took place in Maryland and was often called the “Super Bowl of astronomy” because of its significance.
The 246th meeting is set for June 8-12, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska. This summer event will be joint with the Laboratory Astrophysics and Solar Physics Divisions. Venues include the Dena’ina Civic & Convention Center and William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center.
These meetings feature scientific presentations, poster sessions, and press conferences. Attendees include professional astronomers, grad students, and industry folks. The events offer networking and foster collaboration between researchers and commercial space companies.
The AAS supports specialized meetings through its divisions, each focused on a specific area of research. The Solar Physics Division teams up with the American Geophysical Union for the Triennial Earth-Sun Summit.
The Division for Planetary Sciences (DPS) holds its own conferences dedicated to planetary science. These meetings often highlight research relevant to space exploration missions and planetary defense.
Other divisions organize focused gatherings throughout the year. The Laboratory Astrophysics Division contributes to joint meetings that mix theoretical research with practical applications. These specialized conferences let researchers dig deeper into specific topics than the big annual meetings allow.
Past AAS meetings have featured big scientific announcements and prestigious lectures. The 235th meeting included Robert W. Smith’s HAD LeRoy E. Doggett Prize Lecture on the transformation of astronomy from 1860-1990.
The 232nd meeting featured Keivan Stassun’s plenary talk on precision astrophysics for exoplanets and stellar research. The 230th meeting highlighted Bonnie Buratti’s lecture on the Rosetta Mission to Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko.
These conferences regularly showcase student achievements through awards and competitions. They also host education and outreach events, sometimes drawing hundreds of local students to special programs sponsored by groups like Associated Universities, Inc.
Press conferences at these meetings often announce discoveries that grab public attention and influence the direction of space exploration.
The American Astronomical Society recognizes exceptional achievements through a range of prestigious awards. These honors celebrate lifetime achievement, early-career excellence, and innovative research that pushes our understanding of the cosmos.
The Henry Norris Russell Lectureship stands as the American Astronomical Society’s highest honor. The award goes to astronomers who make fundamental contributions to the field over their careers.
Recipients deliver a prestigious lecture at the society’s annual meeting. The award honors both research excellence and service to the astronomical community.
Recent recipients include pioneers in infrared astronomy and space instrumentation. Marcia Rieke received this honor for her groundbreaking work in infrared astronomy, both in space and on the ground.
She led efforts on the James Webb Space Telescope and its NIRCam instrument, representing decades of innovation. Her research expanded our knowledge of galaxies and active galactic nuclei across the universe.
The lectureship also recognizes national leadership in policy activities. Winners often help shape the future direction of astronomical research through planning and strategic work.
The Newton Lacy Pierce Prize spotlights outstanding achievement by young astronomers in North America. It celebrates researchers who show exceptional promise early in their careers.
David Charbonneau received this prize for foundational work in exoplanet research. He discovered the first planetary transit and pushed forward atmospheric studies of planets beyond our solar system.
His pioneering observations made transit photometry a major method for finding exoplanets. His research into exoplanet atmospheres opened new windows into the composition and climate of distant worlds.
The prize specifically targets astronomers within seven years of earning their doctorate. This timing catches researchers during their most innovative and productive early career phase.
The Helen B. Warner Prize for Astronomy honors outstanding research contributions by astronomers within eight years of their PhD. The award recognizes creative techniques and discoveries that move the field forward.
Susan Clark received recognition for her work on cosmic magnetism and studies of the interstellar medium. She developed new observational techniques that opened up fresh research paths in magnetic field mapping.
Her methods changed how astronomers study magnetic field structures in space. They also improved our understanding of galactic foregrounds in cosmic microwave background measurements.
The prize highlights both theoretical progress and practical applications. Clark’s work gave deeper insights into gas and dust properties throughout the Milky Way and beyond.
Winners show exceptional creativity in tackling fundamental astronomical questions. The award celebrates researchers who combine technical innovation with discoveries that shape future research.
The American Astronomical Society honors exceptional scientific contributions through three major division awards. Each prize recognizes groundbreaking research in specific astronomical fields, from cosmology and astrophysics to major observational achievements.
The Beatrice M. Tinsley Prize stands out as one of astronomy’s most respected honors for theoretical astrophysics research. The American Astronomical Society created this award to spotlight exceptional, creative, or innovative contributions to astronomy or astrophysics.
They named it after cosmologist Beatrice Tinsley, aiming to celebrate scientists with remarkable theoretical insights. Usually, recipients push forward our understanding of stellar evolution, galaxy formation, or cosmological processes through mathematical modeling and computational work.
This prize carries serious prestige in the astronomical community. Winners get recognized for research that changes how astronomers view the universe’s structure and evolution.
Recent recipients have made waves in dark matter research, black hole physics, and galaxy cluster dynamics. The award specifically highlights theoretical work, not observational discoveries.
The Dannie Heineman Prize for Astrophysics comes from a partnership between the American Astronomical Society and the American Institute of Physics. This award celebrates outstanding breakthroughs in astrophysical research and theory.
They focus on mid-career astronomers who’ve made big strides in understanding cosmic phenomena. Winners show excellence in areas like stellar physics, planetary systems, and cosmology.
Priyamvada Natarajan, for example, earned this honor thanks to her work in dark matter and black hole physics. She pushed forward gravitational lensing techniques and black hole formation models.
Winners often contribute to several areas of astrophysics with innovative research. The award recognizes both theoretical advances and practical applications that deepen our understanding of astronomy.
The George Van Biesbroeck Prize celebrates long-term achievement in astronomical observation and service. This award values sustained excellence, not just a single breakthrough.
They named it for astronomer George Van Biesbroeck, honoring dedication to observational astronomy and professional service. Recipients show commitment to advancing knowledge through systematic observations over many years.
The prize usually goes to astronomers who contribute to a range of research projects and mentor the next generation. Winners demonstrate both research productivity and leadership within the astronomy community.
This prize stands out by emphasizing career-long contributions. The recognition really values consistent excellence and service to the broader astronomical field.
The American Astronomical Society runs specialized divisions that give out targeted awards for excellence in distinct astronomical disciplines. These division-level honors highlight groundbreaking research in celestial mechanics, astronomical history, solar physics, and high-energy astrophysics.
The Dirk Brouwer Award is the top honor from the Division of Dynamical Astronomy. The award celebrates outstanding contributions to dynamical astronomy.
It recognizes scientists who advance the mathematical understanding of celestial mechanics. Recipients often excel in orbital dynamics, planetary motion theory, or gravitational interactions.
Dirk Brouwer, a Dutch-American astronomer, made fundamental contributions to celestial mechanics. He worked on lunar theory and satellite orbits, making him a pioneer in the field.
Selection criteria focus on research impact and innovation in dynamical systems. The Division of Dynamical Astronomy looks at contributions to theory, computational methods, or observational applications.
Winners often tackle problems involving asteroid dynamics, planetary ring systems, or exoplanet orbits. Their research helps predict celestial motions and the long-term stability of astronomical systems.
The Historical Astronomy Division gives the LeRoy E. Doggett Prize for exceptional work in astronomical history. This award celebrates scholars who illuminate astronomy’s past with rigorous research.
Recipients show expertise in archival research, manuscript analysis, or the history of astronomical instruments. Their work often uncovers forgotten discoveries or brings new perspectives to famous achievements.
LeRoy Doggett, a notable astronomer and historian at the U.S. Naval Observatory, inspired the creation of this award.
Research areas include ancient astronomy, medieval Islamic contributions, or the rise of modern observational techniques. Winners often publish in specialized journals or author comprehensive historical surveys.
The prize recognizes both professional historians and astronomers who contribute to historical scholarship. Their work keeps astronomy’s heritage accessible for future generations.
The Solar Physics Division gives the Karen Harvey Prize to early-career scientists making significant contributions to solar research. This prize supports emerging talent in solar astronomy.
It goes to researchers within ten years of earning their doctorate who show exceptional promise in solar physics. Recipients often study solar magnetic fields, coronal dynamics, or space weather.
Karen Harvey, a pioneering solar physicist, studied magnetic field evolution and sunspot cycles. Her research on solar magnetism still shapes the field today.
Eligible research topics cover theoretical modeling, observational campaigns, or instrument development for solar studies. Winners frequently use data from missions like the Solar Dynamics Observatory or Parker Solar Probe.
The award includes financial support and recognition at the Solar Physics Division meeting. This early-career boost helps promising researchers get established in solar astronomy.
The High Energy Astrophysics Division gives the Bruno Rossi Prize for outstanding achievement in high-energy astrophysics. This award highlights discoveries in the universe’s most energetic phenomena.
Recipients make key contributions to understanding black holes, neutron stars, gamma-ray bursts, or cosmic ray acceleration. Their work often uses cutting-edge space missions or ground-based observatories.
Bruno Rossi led the way in cosmic ray research and space-based X-ray astronomy. His detector designs and theoretical insights laid the groundwork for modern high-energy astrophysics.
Prize categories include major observational discoveries, theoretical breakthroughs, or new instruments. Recent winners have contributed to gravitational wave detection, multi-messenger astronomy, or studies of extreme cosmic events.
The award committee looks at both individual and collaborative achievements. Many winners work with major space telescopes like Chandra, Fermi, or the upcoming Athena mission.
The American Astronomical Society drives positive change through education initiatives that reach millions of students each year. The organization shapes federal policy decisions affecting space science and actively champions diversity and inclusion across the field.
The AAS transforms science education with comprehensive programs that reach K-12 classrooms nationwide. NASA, NSF, and the Astronomical Society of the Pacific have created educational materials that bring astronomy right into schools. These resources impact science literacy for millions of students every year.
The society’s Sky & Telescope magazine connects professional and amateur astronomers worldwide. Since acquiring the magazine in 2019, the AAS has expanded its educational reach to amateur astronomers everywhere.
The AAS supports innovative educational programs like ComSciCon, which trains early-career astronomers in science journalism. The society also supports the Astrobites blog and related “bites” sites.
These educational efforts boost scientific understanding of the universe among diverse audiences. The programs create entry points for future astronomers and scientists.
The AAS runs an active public policy program that influences federal decisions affecting astronomy research. The organization works directly with policymakers to protect funding for astronomical sciences. They keep community members informed about policy developments and ways to get involved.
The Committee on Space and Satellite Protection (COMPASSE) tackles issues like light pollution and satellite interference with ground-based observations. This group helps protect astronomy and the space environment.
The AAS fights for sustained funding of major astronomical facilities and research programs. Their policy work helps the U.S. keep its leadership in space science. The organization also coordinates with other scientific societies to amplify their voice in Washington.
The Committee on the Status of Women in Astronomy (CSWA) addresses gender equity challenges in the field. This group has driven big improvements in hiring practices and workplace culture.
The AAS enforces strict anti-harassment policies and codes of ethics for all activities. The organization responds quickly to reports of inappropriate behavior, taking corrective action as needed. These policies help create safer, more welcoming environments at conferences and in professional settings.
The society provides funding to help authors who can’t afford publication charges. This ensures that everyone has access to scholarly literature, no matter their economic situation. The program removes financial barriers that might keep important research out of the global astronomy community.
The American Astronomical Society has shaped modern astronomy through its specialized divisions and research programs. The organization has advanced astrophysics research, revolutionized planetary and solar science, and opened up discoveries in high-energy phenomena across the universe.
The AAS has changed astrophysics through its research networks and publications. The society publishes The Astrophysical Journal, which stands as one of the most influential astronomy journals out there. This journal has documented major breakthroughs in stellar evolution, cosmology, and theoretical astrophysics for over a century.
AAS members have helped us understand black holes, neutron stars, and gravitational waves. The High Energy Astrophysics Division, founded in 1969, focuses on relativistic phenomena and high-energy particles in space.
The society gives out the Bruno Rossi Prize for major contributions to high-energy astrophysics. This recognition has honored discoveries that changed how we see extreme cosmic environments.
AAS conferences bring together thousands of researchers every year. These meetings spark collaboration between theorists and observers, advancing computational astrophysics and new observational techniques.
The AAS Division for Planetary Sciences has guided solar system exploration since 1968. This division supports research on planets, moons, asteroids, and comets, both in our solar system and beyond.
Members have contributed to NASA missions to Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. The division awards the Gerard P. Kuiper Prize for lifetime achievements in planetary science and the Harold C. Urey Prize for outstanding early career contributions.
The Solar Physics Division, also founded in 1969, advances our understanding of the Sun’s behavior and its effects on Earth. Research from this division has improved space weather prediction and solar energy applications.
Solar physics research has shown how solar flares and coronal mass ejections affect satellite communications and power grids. The division presents the George Ellery Hale Prize for lifetime achievement in solar astronomy, recognizing scientists who have moved the field forward.
AAS members have led the way in x-ray astronomy since the 1960s. The High Energy Astrophysics Division keeps archives documenting the development of x-ray astronomy from 1967 to 2013.
X-ray observations supported by AAS research have revealed active galactic nuclei, supermassive black holes, and galaxy cluster dynamics. These findings have changed how we understand galaxy formation and evolution.
The society’s research programs have contributed to major x-ray missions like Chandra and XMM-Newton. These space telescopes have detected x-ray emissions from distant galaxies and clusters.
Galaxy research supported by AAS divisions has mapped the large-scale structure of the universe and the distribution of dark matter. The Division on Dynamical Astronomy studies galaxy interactions and cosmic evolution, connecting local dynamics with universal processes.
The American Astronomical Society serves thousands of researchers, educators, and space professionals through its publications, conferences, career resources, and recognition programs. If you want to contribute, you can submit research to six major journals—each with its own eligibility standards. Conference presentations require structured proposals and have annual deadlines.
The American Astronomical Society puts out six major journals and welcomes submissions from researchers all over the world. You don’t have to be an AAS member to submit to The Astronomical Journal, The Astrophysical Journal, The Astrophysical Journal Supplement, The Astrophysical Journal Letters, Research Notes of the AAS, or The Planetary Science Journal.
You’ll need to submit original research that hasn’t appeared anywhere else. The society asks authors to stick to particular formatting rules and uphold the usual ethical standards for scientific publishing.
AAS teamed up with Overleaf to make submitting easier. You can send your manuscript straight from Overleaf into the peer review system for any of these journals.
Research Notes of the AAS takes shorter communications and early findings, which is pretty handy if you’re not ready for a full paper. The Planetary Science Journal zooms in on planetary and exoplanetary research.
The American Astronomical Society hosts two big meetings each year, featuring talks, posters, and special symposia. Abstract submissions usually open months in advance, with deadlines posted on the society’s website.
If you want to present, you’ll need to submit your abstract through the official AAS meeting portal. They accept presentations from all corners of astronomy, from theory to hands-on observations.
The 241st AAS Meeting happened in January 2023, keeping with their regular schedule. These meetings pack in thousands of presentations over several days.
Conference organizers review each submission for scientific value and relevance. If they accept your work, you’ll hear back a few weeks before the meeting kicks off.
The American Astronomical Society runs a career website that lists astronomy jobs across different sectors. You’ll find academic faculty jobs, research scientist roles, observatory staff positions, and even planetarium director openings.
NASA and other government agencies often post jobs on the AAS site. Private aerospace companies and consulting firms look for people with astronomy backgrounds too.
Colleges use the AAS platform to hire professors and research staff. Science museums and public outreach groups also look for astronomy educators through these listings.
AAS hires for administrative and program management roles pretty regularly, though current employees can’t get certain society honors. If you’re a high school student eyeing an astronomy career, the society suggests loading up on science and math courses.
The American Astronomical Society hands out several types of recognition, including career achievement prizes, early career awards, and service honors. The AAS Fellows Program is probably the society’s most comprehensive honor, spotlighting members for outstanding achievement and service.
To become a Fellow, you have to be a current AAS member in good standing for at least five straight years, or ten non-consecutive years. The selection committee looks at scientific accomplishments, education and outreach, public policy work, and service to the field.
Each year, the society limits new Fellows to 0.5% of current full members. Nominations stay active for three years, so you’ve got a few chances if you’re nominated.
When the program began, E. Margaret Burbidge became an Inaugural Fellow. About 200 distinguished members joined as Legacy Fellows in the first year.
The American Astronomical Society doesn’t really run traditional internship programs like research labs or observatories do. Mostly, the society serves as a professional hub for networking and career growth rather than doing hands-on research.
If you’re after an astronomy internship, you should check out NASA centers, national observatories, and university research programs. The AAS career site lists plenty of these outside opportunities.
Annual AAS meetings give students a chance to meet potential mentors and research supervisors. Lots of academic institutions recruit undergraduates for research through these conference connections.
You’ll also find professional development workshops at AAS meetings, which help early-career astronomers build essential skills. These sessions go hand-in-hand with formal internships at research facilities.
The American Astronomical Society works as an international non-governmental group that serves the North American astronomical community.
They keep administrative offices to handle their publications, meetings, and services for members.
Staff at AAS headquarters run the organization’s six peer-reviewed journals. These journals recently switched to fully open access, which is a pretty big shift in the publishing world.
The admin team also puts together biannual scientific meetings. On top of that, they support the society’s professional development programs.
This group acts as the main professional association for astronomers in North America.
Regional agents do their part to connect members at institutions all over the United States and Canada.
Society staff and the Board of Trustees work together to put policies and programs in place that push the organization’s mission forward.
Their administrative team supports over 7,000 members who work in academic, government, and private sector jobs.
