Our Club
Welcome to the world of Astronomy!
Do you ever look up in awe at the thousands of twinkling stars in the night sky? Are you fascinated by the sun, the moon, other planets, comets, meteors, and other stars? We can help that curiosity grow so you can see those objects up close and what else is out there. Most in the hobby remember having that first-time viewing of Saturn with its rings, and seeing with your own eyes through a telescope as one of those cool things in life you remember. You are never too young or too old start learning about space and astronomy. The amazing hobby of astronomy stimulates the mind no matter the age. The Astronomy Club of Tulsa can help you to get started, and we will share our experience and knowledge while you look through our binoculars and telescopes; for now you won’t need your own but eventually you will want your own. In the meantime let us help you get started in this great hobby of Astronomy.
We would like to invite anyone interested in astronomy and space to come see us and find out if astronomy is your “thing”. Come to a meeting, join us at a public star party (observing sessions), and ask us any questions that you might have. It won't cost you anything to see if astronomy is for you, the choice is entirely up to you.
What is The Astronomy Club of Tulsa?
The Astronomy Club of Tulsa (ACT) is a non-profit, volunteer organization founded in 1937, dedicated to promoting astronomy through public education, outreach, and events like monthly star parties. Over its nearly 90-year history, ACT has grown, hosts its own observatory south of Tulsa (Mounds Observatory), and serves as a vital hub for amateur and professional astronomers, offering resources, knowledge, and shared experiences under the night sky for novices and experts alike. The Astronomy Club of Tulsa is an affiliate member of the Astronomical League and NASA’s Night Sky Network, extending our reach and available resources.
Mission & Purpose:
ACT's core mission is to provide a public forum for research, information exchange, and social interaction, making astronomy accessible to everyone through shared viewing and learning experiences.
Key Milestones & Activities:
Founding (1937): The club started serving the Northeast Oklahoma area, focusing on bringing the wonders of the universe to the public.
Incorporation (1986): Became a formal non-profit organization.
Mounds Observatory (1993): With the help of a grant from the Ronald McDonald House, the club built its own domed observatory housing a Meade 14-inch RCX400 Advanced Ritchey-Chrétien Design telescope, 25 miles south of Tulsa near Mounds, Oklahoma.
Community Focus: The ACT provides educational programs, Sidewalk Astronomy, monthly meetings, and star parties to share knowledge and foster interest in space.
Affiliations: The club is a member of the Astronomical League and NASA's Night Sky Network, extending its reach and resources.
