Our Mission
HCAS is a group of people from varied backgrounds of all ages, with a common bond – a love for astronomy. HCAS is associated with Harford Community College and has use of the HCC Observatory and meeting rooms.
Our members are friendly and welcome anyone with an interest in astronomy – from a beginner to an advanced observer or astro-photographer. HCAS is dedicated to the people of Harford County; to assist and augment learning and interest in astronomy.
We are committed to providing strong, all-volunteer outreach programs to schools, clubs, and other interested organizations.
Our Goals
Promote the interest and love of astronomy for the people of Harford County, Maryland.
Advocate for dark skies and fight light pollution and light trespass.
Engage with schools, churches, scouts and other groups to expand knowledge and interest in astronomy.
Maintain an inclusive atmosphere at the observatory where every astronomer is welcome to join and share their love of astronomy, regardless of skill level or education.
Please consider supporting us.
About Us
The Harford County Astronomical Society (HCAS) was founded in 1970 and is affiliated with the Astronomical League. The Society offers a wide range of activities for persons with an interest in astronomy. These include: Numerous opportunities to view the planets, moon, and stars.
HCAS holds monthly meetings, sometimes with a speaker on an aspect of astronomy. Several club meetings are open to the public and are held in the observatory located on the campus of Harford Community College, just outside of Bel Air, Maryland.
HCAS conducts public open houses on one Saturday night of each month throughout the year. The general public is invited to these events which are held at the observatory. Parking is at the Vocational Technical High School parking lot which is adjacent to the observatory.
HCAS has a private “dark sky” site near Broad Creek which is used by HCAS members for star parties and other advanced observing/imaging sessions. These events are not open to the public.
The primary instrument at the observatory is a 14-inch Celestron C-14 catadioptric Schmidt-Cassegrain. The mount is an Astro-Physics 1200 GOTO computerized system.
Astrophotography
If you are interested in photographing the cosmos, we are the club for you! We are available to help anyone who wants to learn. Our club has several members who are avid astrophotographers. You can view some of our work in our “Gallery”.
