The Society was founded in 1892 as the North-Western Branch of the British Astronomical Association. We became independent in 1903 and are one of the oldest astronomical societies in the country. We aim to encourage the study of astronomy for both the newcomer and the seasoned observer alike. We have been custodians of the Godlee Observatory since 1946, thanks to the generosity of firstly the College of Technology, later UMIST and finally, the University of Manchester.
Each Thursday we meet in The Godlee Observatory (apart from the Public Lecture evenings and the Christmas/New Year break, when the Observatory will be closed), from about 19:00. Any scheduled talks will start at about 20:00. Weather permitting, we may also observe using the telescopes until as late as people want to stay. If you are interested in coming to any of these meetings please see the visitor information page.