Astronomy

The study of matter outside the earth's atmosphere, especially the positions, dimensions, distribution, motion, and composition of celestial bodies and phenomena.

Sub-headings:

Astrophysics

Where physics and astronomy merge.

Galactic

The study of the large-scale structure of the universe.

Solar System (Planetary)

Objects with the Earth's solar system, including the Sun, planets, comets, and asteroids.

Spaceflight & Exploration

The exploration of space and the tools for doing so.

Stargazing

Amateur astronomy.

Stellar

The study of stars and star-like objects.

Resources in this category:

American Astronomical Society
http://www.aas.org/

³The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is the major professional organization in North America for astronomers and other scientists and individuals interested in astronomy.² This site features an online version of the Astrophysical Journal, a job register, and a FTP archive as well as membership and organizational information.

Astronomical Society of Harrisburg
http://www.astrohbg.org/

"The home page of the Astronomical Society of Harrisburg has information about telescopes and optics, lunar astronomy, and observing in addition to many worthwhile astronomical links."

Canadian Astronomical Society
http://www.astro.queensu.ca/~casca/

"The Canadian Astronomical Society was founded in 1971 and incorporated in 1983 as a society of professional astronomers. The society is devoted to the promotion and advancement of knowledge of the universe through research and education. Membership is open to persons with a professional involvement with these goals in astronomy and the related sciences. The main activities of the Society are its annual scientific meetings, the planning and realization of scientific projects, the support of the scientific activities of its members, and the dissemination of related information among members and other interested persons." Find information here about meetings, membership, officers and committees, and awards. There are links to Canadian observatories and research centers.

European Association for Astronomy Education
http://www.algonet.se/~sirius/eaae.htm

"European association for teachers and other people interested in teaching in astronomy. The aim of the EAAE is to develop and to promote the teaching of Astronomy in the broadest way possible."

International Astronomical Union
http://www.iau.org/

The IAU is the major international association for the study of astronomy and is perhaps best known for being ³the sole authority for assigning designations and names to celestrial bodies and the surface features there on.² This site has a searchable member index and links on how to report sightings of new celestial phenomena, as well as membership and organizational information.

SETI Institute
http://www.seti.org/site/pp.asp?c=ktJ2J9MMIsE&b=178025

"Home for scientific and educational projects relevant to the nature, distribution, and prevalence of life in the universe. Conducts/encourages research and related activities in a large number of fields." This extensive site details the SETI Institute's activities and the concepts and practices behind Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence efforts.