Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Vancouver Centre

The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Vancouver Centre, is a local branch of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC), a national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting astronomy and allied sciences. The Vancouver Centre is one of the many local Centres that RASC operates across Canada.

History

The RASC itself was originally formed in Toronto, Ontario, in 1868 as the Toronto Astronomical Club. It was formally incorporated as The Astronomical and Physical Society of Toronto in 1890 and later renamed to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 1903, after being granted permission by King Edward VII to use the "Royal" prefix[1][4]. The expansion of RASC across Canada led to the establishment of various Centres, including the Vancouver Centre, which was formed in 1931[5].

Purpose and Activities

Like other RASC Centres, the Vancouver Centre aims to advance astronomy through public outreach, education, and member activities. It offers opportunities for amateur and professional astronomers to engage in discussions, events, and projects. The Centre supports the broader goals of RASC in fostering a community of astronomy enthusiasts across Canada.

Structure and Membership

As part of the RASC, the Vancouver Centre is part of a network that includes over 30 Centres nationwide, with approximately 4,500 members from coast to coast to coast[4]. The membership at the Vancouver Centre includes both amateur and professional astronomers, as well as astronomy educators.

National Context

The RASC, including its Vancouver Centre, is the Canadian counterpart to the British Astronomical Association[4]. It publishes its main organ, the Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (JRASC), which serves as a platform for astronomical research and articles. The RASC is registered as a charitable organization, focusing on educational and scientific activities.