Some people enter our wonderful hobby on their own, first reading books and magazines, later purchasing telescopes as they learn the night sky. Many others, though, are introduced to what lies above by someone who already owns a quality telescope – someone who has not just a good knowledge of the sky, but an exciting way of conveying enthusiasm to others, causing them to want to experience more.

That second path is what National Astronomy Day is all about. On two days each year, one in the spring and the other in the fall, and both just before a first quarter moon, amateurs across the country and around the globe cart out their equipment and unleash their passion on the public, showing what an amazing avocation amateur astronomy truly is.

The Astronomical League is here to help. Wouldn’t it be great if there were helpful aids assisting clubs and individuals in their Astronomy Day and outreach endeavors? There is – download the Astronomy Day Handbook. Wouldn’t it be great if there were materials answering many common questions the public may likely ask? There are – download the numerous Astronomical League Outreach Downloads in either handout or poster format. Wouldn’t it be great if there were inexpensive solar glasses through which people could view the sun? There are – check out the pertinent details for the eclipse glasses at League Sales.

Furthermore, wouldn’t it be great if clubs were recognized for their innovation and efforts in putting amateur astronomy directly in front of the public? The Astronomical League, with help from Sky and Telescope and the American Astronomical Society, presents three $150 cash awards, one each for the best event in a large, medium, and small populated service area. In addition, $50 is awarded to a club that consistently holds a quality event.