Frequently Asked Questions
Membership
Category
Questions:
What are the benefits
of SMAS membership?
Benefits include:
- Scheduled SMAS observing sessions (2 per month)
- Access to dark sky observing site at NCEEC
- Use of Nanjemoy Creek Observatory (NCO) complex
- Use of SMAS equipment/reference materials
- Volunteer participation in public "Star Parties" and other outreach
programs
- Access to SMAS Mail List Server a.k.a. SOMDAS (message archive, SMAS
member discussion and cyberspace storage of photos and files)
- Sky Publishing Catalog Periodic Sales Incentives - if you purchase a
Sky & Telescope (S&T) Magazine reduced rate subscription
(currently $32.95/12 months) through SMAS. If you already have an
S&T magazine subscription on your own, you can convert it to the
S&T discount rate by paying the $32.95. This will extend your
current subscription by 12 months. These S&T discount memberships
are only available to astronomy club members and must be processed
through the club's treasurer.
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What is the policy
regarding members bringing guests to SMAS observing sessions?
Members' guests are always welcome. Members are responsible
for their guests and should consider notifying members via SOMDAS if a
large number of guests will be attending.
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Is there a membership
list available?
A membership list is available to members via
request to the SMAS Treasurer.
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How much are the
membership dues?
A membership is $25.00 per family per
calendar year and it is prorated for new members that join during the
year. Visit the "Join Us"
section of the website for more details.
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How many members are
in SMAS?
SMAS has an annual average membership of
45.
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