David Rittenhouse was driven to create the perfect orrery, a master scientific instrument of his time.β¨
Observing Opportunity @ Ryan Observatory
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Next Gathering April 26, Sunset
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Bring your observing gear
β¨ Observing Opportunity @ Ryan Observatory π Next Gathering April 26, Sunset π Bring your observing gear
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WOLF > January
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SNOW > February
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WORM > March
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PINK > April
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FLOWER > May
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STRAWBERRY > June
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BUCK > July
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STUERGON > August
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CORN > September
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HUNTER > October
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BEAVER > November
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COLD > December
β¨πβ¨ WOLF > January β¨πβ¨ SNOW > February β¨πβ¨ WORM > March β¨πβ¨ PINK > April β¨πβ¨ FLOWER > May β¨πβ¨ STRAWBERRY > June β¨πβ¨ BUCK > July β¨πβ¨ STUERGON > August β¨πβ¨ CORN > September β¨πβ¨ HUNTER > October β¨πβ¨ BEAVER > November β¨πβ¨ COLD > December
We promote awareness and interest in astronomy and related sciences through
educational, inspirational, and engaging programs.
Rittenhouse Astronomical Society: rooted in history.
Founded in 1888, the Rittenhouse Astronomical Society is one of the oldest astronomical societies in the United States. Named for famous American astronomer, David Rittehouse, RAS has held regular events in the greater Philadelphia region for 135 years.
Observe the sky above.
Through the years, we have partnered with wonderful local organizations, including the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Ryan Observatory at Muddy Run Park in Holtwood, and the Betty Huf Planetarium in Warminster. We encourage all those interested in the night sky to join us for our events. We foster creative methods for observing, whether you live in an area with a truly dark sky or in a bright city with a lot of light pollution. Yes, even in downtown Philadelphia or New York City, you can see wonderful astronomical sights with your eyes, a pair of binoculars, or a telescope.
Learn from Professionals and Experts!
For our monthly events, we engage our membership either by LiveSteam (Zoom and You-Tube) or in person. We invite creative professionals to speak to our members, as well as the public. Hybrid events are conducted in person and live-streamed. We have recently hosted live events at Arcadia University, Mallon Planetarium at Methacton School District, Ryan Observatory and Rowan College of South Jersey.
Wether observing in town at Columbus Square, or from the dark skies south of Lancaster, we enjoy gathering at a variety of locations around the Philadelphia area.
Interested in music with space themes? Curious how someone goes from the classroom to working with the International Space Station? Would you like to know what itβs like to build a state-of-the-art telescope in the mountains of Chile? Attend an RAS event!
Join Our Community!
At the end of the day, weβre a group of people who love astronomy. Due to recent changes brought about by Covid, we expanding our community by appearing at locations around the Delaware Valley. Either live or virtually, consider joining in. We have all levels of people interested in astronomy including enthusiasts, amateurs to professionals.
“The direct tendency of Astronomy is to dilate the heart with universal benevolence, and to enlarge its views.”