The Royal Astronomical Society

Who has never looked up and asked themselves questions about the expansive frontier that spreads out before them in the nighttime sky? From the dawn of time, man has looked to the heavens with wonder and awe. From the stars to the planets and the larger questions about what put it all into motion in the first place, the utter vastness of the celestial show seems to draw forth questions that seem almost unanswerable. But for a small minority, this curiosity has leapt beyond the boundaries of simple wonder and fascination to become a professional pursuit.

Some commit to full-time study in schools and colleges while others, who may find their curiosity piqued later in life may be satisfied to seek their answers through the viewfinder of their amateur telescope.

Some become members of the Royal Astronomical Society. Founded in London in 1820 to provide research in the field of astronomy, the society has long held meetings in several buildings located in the Mayfair district of inner London.

Housed in the Burlington House, this fraternal organization has served to answer some of the pressing questions of the field, and within their walls you’ll find professionals and amateurs alike contributing to the study of the solar sciences, geophysics and astronomy.

Today the society boasts a membership of nearly three thousand members with approximately a third of their membership living outside the borders of Britain. The Society is open to all those who can find favorability with the current members either by virtue of their education of even amateur contributions. Those with interest in joining may also support The Friends of the RAS by either financial or observational contributions.

While other London hotels can also offer the services of a well informed concierge to help arrange transportation to and from Burlington House during meeting, Mayfair hotels near the Burlington House are best suited for visitors due to their close proximity to the society and offer services that provide transportation to and from the square.