AAS Mission and Vision Statement

The American Astronomical Society (AAS), established 1899, is the major organization of professional astronomers in North America. The membership of about 7,000 also includes physicists, mathematicians, geologists, engineers, and others whose research interests lie within the broad spectrum of subjects now comprising contemporary astronomy.

The mission of the American Astronomical Society is to enhance and share humanity’s scientific understanding of the Universe.

  1. The Society, through its publications, disseminates and archives the results of astronomical research. The Society also communicates and explains our understanding of the universe to the public.
  2. The Society facilitates and strengthens the interactions among members through professional meetings and other means. The Society supports member divisions representing specialized research and astronomical interests.
  3. The Society represents the goals of its community of members to the nation and the world. The Society also works with other scientific and educational societies to promote the advancement of science.
  4. The Society, through its members, trains, mentors and supports the next generation of astronomers. The Society supports and promotes increased participation of historically underrepresented groups in astronomy.
  5. The Society assists its members to develop their skills in the fields of education and public outreach at all levels. The Society promotes broad interest in astronomy, which enhances science literacy and leads many to careers in science and engineering.

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Benefits of AAS Membership

Membership in the American Astronomical Society provides benefits to the profession of Astronomy and Astrophysics as well as to its members.

Benefits to our Profession

  1. Publication of premier astronomical journals, the Astronomical Journal, Astrophysical Journal, Astrophysical Journal Supplement, and Astrophysical Journal Letters. The AAS leadership in online access to scientific journals and the development of online journal features and resources is directly supported by our members and the authors who publish in our journals.
  2. Development of astronomy and astrophysics education and outreach activities such as Astronomy Ambassadors, which is designed to help improve early-career astronomers' ability to effectively communicate with students and the public.
  3. Membership in the AAS facilitates representation of the astronomical sciences in the policy process and funds staff to track issues and inform members when to take direct action for the benefit of our research community.
  4. Membership in the AAS builds a sense of community through our semi-annual meetings and communications of the society. Members are listed in the AAS Directory, both online and in print, enabling collaboration worldwide.
  5. Membership in the AAS enables community-wide programs that enhance our profession, such as:
  6. Membership in the AAS enables emergency response actions on behalf of our community, such as the book donation program for the Mount Stromlo Observatory.

Benefits to Members

As a member of the AAS, you gain access to a variety of resources including discounts for products or services of interest to the astronomical community. Contact the Membership Department for additional details.

  1. Members receive the following publications at no charge:
    • AAS Membership Directory (including comprehensive listing of astronomy institutions, worldwide)
    • AAS News Digest, a biweekly email newsletter containing the latest news from the AAS and the astronomical sciences
    • AAS Calendar
    • AAS Action Alerts and Informational Emails (occasional communications related to public policy)
    • Physics Today, a monthly publication of the American Institute of Physics (AIP)
  2. Discounted electronic subscription to AAS Journals
  3. Discounted meeting registration for AAS and AAS Division meetings
  4. Discounted membership dues in AAS Divisions
  5. Discounts on AIP Publications
  6. Ability to rent meeting space in the AAS Executive Office
  7. Participation in the American Physical Society Insurance Trust (APSIT): Available coverage includes Term Life, 10-Year Level-Term Life, Disability, and Personal Accident.
  8. Significant discount on all Annual Reviews Publications, including the Annual Reviews of Astronomy and Astrophysics and Annual Reviews of Earth Science and Planetary Science
  9. Discounted lodging at the Club Quarters Hotels located in many major cities worldwide
  10. Discounted car rentals through Hertz
  11. Ability to join the NASA Federal Credit Union