I’ve registered on the website – does that mean I am a Member of the LAS?
No. Registering on the website (which is free of charge) does not mean you are a Member of the Liverpool Astronomical Society. It just means you have an account on the website, which in the past was used for commenting on posts and using the forums, both of which are currently not in use due to spam issues.
How do I become a Member of the LAS?
You will need to attend one of our in-person Monthly Meetings which run between the months of September-May (as of writing, at the Quaker Meeting House, Liverpool.)
Your annual subscription fee (see below) is payable to the Society Treasure or one of their delegates. At the meeting your membership request is put to a vote of the Members present, and if all goes well your membership will be accepted.
It sounds very formal, but don’t be nervous – each of our members have done it and it’s over in a minute.
Can I become a Member without being present? (or via e-mail, phone, Skype, Zoom, etc.)
At present, Membership of the Society can only be completed in person at a Monthly Meeting.
What are the benefits of becoming a Member of the LAS?
Although the public are welcome at many of our events, and we encourage them to visit, Members of the Society have access to an additional wealth of resources such as:
- Regular talks, lectures and presentations on a range of subjects by fellow amateurs in the LAS and other astronomical societies, as well as professional scientists such as Dr. Allan Chapman
- Access to our library of astronomical reference material
- Loan equipment *
- Use of the Leighton Observatory and telescope *
* Please note: use of these facilities must be approved and booked in advance via the Observatory Director.
Do I have to be 18 to become a member?
No – we also offer a Junior Membership at a reduced price, for those aged between 14 and 17.
Does it cost a lot to join the LAS?
Note: Membership Fees are correct as of June 2023
| Membership Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (18 & above) Annual Subscription | £25.00 |
| Juniors (14-17 inclusive) Annual Subscription | £5.00 |
Please note: Subscriptions are due from 1st October each year and must be paid by January 31st or your membership may be suspended. If not paid by 31st March your membership will cease.
You can now pay for your subscription via Internet banking. Please contact the Treasurer for more information.
We also produce a monthly newsletter, the LAS News Circular, which is available electronically as a PDF. Previously this was printed on paper and charged at an additional £5 / year, however in 2014 we were very happy to be able to include the e-newsletter in the standard subscription at no additional cost to our members.
I have other questions
You may find that your question has already been answered elsewhere on our website (try the search box at the top of the page) or one of our social media channels.
If not, you can also contact us directly by clicking here.