Established in 1924, the Eastbay Astronomical Society is a non-profit voluntary organization with a focus on the communication of astronomy and other space sciences to the public. The Society was founded in partnership with the Chabot Space and Science Center, which hosts a planetarium, an observatory, and a museum.
The Society is an associate member of the Western Amateur Astronomers, Astronomical Association of Northern California, and the Night Sky Network, a national coalition of amateur astronomy clubs operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Members of the Society have access to space science presentations and the Chabot Science Library. In addition, members have the opportunity to either borrow a telescope through the Loaner Scope Program, build their own telescope through the weekly Telescope Makers’ Workshop, or use the telescopes provided by Chabot without interruption at the monthly Member-Only Viewing Night, all providing access to the stars at a fraction of the price of a reliable telescope.
Dedicated members of the Society staff the telescopes and provide expertise and volunteer support at Chabot, and participate in outreach programs, educating the public both at and away from the Center.
To become a member of the Society, submit an application online or through mail on the website. In addition to all of the above benefits, a membership entitles you to a monthly newsletter and an invitation to an annual awards dinner and holiday party.