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The Rio Rancho Astronomical Society began in 1998 as an astronomy club with Rio Rancho High School.  Soon after its founding, the club expanded to become a public club, independent of the high school.  Over the years, we have grown and expanded, with new members coming and going, to the current public club we are today.  We are open to all types of members, from beginning astronomers to seasoned veterans.   And no, you don't need to be a master observer or even own a telescope to join.  All you need are a good pair of eyes and a willingness to learn.

Our monthly meetings are usually held at Rainbow Park Observatory 301 Southern Blvd in Rio Rancho.  The building is located behind Rainbow Park Pool (See map link at right).  The monthly meeting is usually on the Friday of the month that is between New Moon and First Quarter Moon, starting at 7:30 PM and a public stargaze follows each meeting, weather permitting.

Upcoming Club Events

July 20th,  2:00 PM

50th Anniversary of Apollo 11 Landing

RRAS Vice President Melanie Templet will give a talk on the History of the 1969 Apollo 11 Landing on the Moon at the Loma Colorado Library.  RRAS members will have solar telescopes set up outside the library for safely viewing the Sun before the talk.  Admission is Free and open to the public

July 31, 6:00 PM

Telescope Training Session

RRAS President Jon Schuchardt twill give a training session on how to use the Rio Rancho Library's 4.5-inch Star Blast telescopes.  The training is free and open to the public and will take place at the Loma Colorado Main Library, at 755 Loma Colorado Blvd NE in Rio Rancho

August 9th, 7:30 PM

Monthly Public Meeting

Meeting will be held at Rainbow Park Observatory.  Stargaze to follow the meeting, weather permitting.  RRAS Vice-President Melanie Templet will give a presentation on the upcoming Perseid Meteor Shower.

August 18th, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Rio Rancho Mayor's Sunday is Funday

The 14th Annual Mayor’s Sunday is Funday is taking place at Haynes Park, 2006 Grande Blvd., across from Intel on N.M. 528. Admission is $1 for those ages 13 and older, and free parking with shuttle service will be available at the Intel parking lot off Westside Blvd.  The RRAS will have a booth set up with solar telescopes and information about the club.

September 7th

9th Annual Night Under the Stars Fundraiser