The British Astronomical Association (BAA) is the senior national association of amateur astronomers in the UK

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...

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Function

It encourages observational astronomy

Observational astronomy

Observational astronomy is a division of the astronomical science that is concerned with getting data, in contrast with theoretical astrophysics which is mainly concerned with finding out the measurable implications of physical models...

 by non-professionals in areas which cannot be covered by professional observatories. Members receive the Journal of the British Astronomical Association

Journal of the British Astronomical Association

-External links:* *...

bi-monthlyhttp://www.britastro.org/journal/; a guide to observing; an annual handbook (of charts and astronomical events); and access to meetings and the association's collections of books and equipment.

Objectives

• The encouragement of all aspects of observational astronomy
  Astronomy
  Astronomy is a natural science that deals with the study of celestial objects and phenomena that originate outside the atmosphere of Earth...
  
   and the association of observers at all levels for mutual help.
• The promotion of a general interest in astronomy for beginners as well as for the more advanced.
• The circulation of current astronomical information and observational material.
• The support of modern advanced techniques for observation, data handling and scientific presentation of results.
• The presentation of medals and prizes in recognition of outstanding contributions to astronomy.

Structure

It is organized into a number of observing sections which specialize in the various aspects of astronomy

Astronomy

Astronomy is a natural science that deals with the study of celestial objects and phenomena that originate outside the atmosphere of Earth...

. It also founded and sponsors the Campaign for Dark Skies

Campaign for Dark Skies

The Campaign for Dark Skies is the United Kingdom's biggest anti-light-pollution campaign group.It is part of the British Astronomical Association and affiliated with the International Dark-Sky Association , and composed of a network of who try to improve lighting in their areas and advise...

. It is situated next to the Royal Academy of Arts

Royal Academy

The Royal Academy of Arts is an art institution based in Burlington House on Piccadilly, London. The Royal Academy of Arts has a unique position in being an independent, privately funded institution led by eminent artists and architects whose purpose is to promote the creation, enjoyment and...

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