The Calumet Astronomical Society was founded in the summer of 1975 at the Hammond Public Library. There were initially about 20 members, many of whom had made their own telescopes at the Adler Planetarium's Optical Shop. Meetings soon moved to the Griffith Public Library with monthly group observing sessions at Stony Run County Park in Leroy. During the late 1980's CAS constructed a small roll off roof observatory at Birdland, a private arboretum near Lake Village.

CAS continued as a small social organization until 1990, when under the leadership of Steve Miller, it moved its observing site to Lemon Lake County Park in Cedar Lake and began public outing observing sessions. These were continued through the 1990s, drawing much public attention. Additional public events were held during the late 1990's at Indiana Dunes State Park, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Deep River County Park, Deep River Water Park, Sunset Hill Farm County Park, Taltree Arboretum, and Oak Ridge Prairie County Park. Partnerships were entered into with NIAG, the Northern Indiana Astronomical Group, and the Indiana Family Star Party sponsored by the Wabash Valley Astronomical Society. Throughout this period, meetings were held at the Munster Public Library.

In 2000, CAS incorporated as an IRS 501c3 not for profit public benefit corporation. A board of directors was formed and handled business separate from the Society general meetings.

In 2000, CAS also became involved in what became the Conway Observatory project. This led to the observatory's installation south of Buckley Homestead County Park in Lowell during the summer of 2005 and the establishment of the Calumet Astronomy Center on this property.

Today the Society is a fellowship of approximately 100 amateur astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts that contribute to the Society's public outreach mission and pursue their own goals in astronomy. Active partnerships with the Lake County Parks and Recreation, and Purdue Calumet University result in superior public programs and facilities. CAS is the most active amateur astronomy organization in the Chicago area. Meetings are held at the Munster, Indiana, branch of the Lake County Public Library.

Why Join The Calumet Astronomical Society?

1. Learn from more experienced amateur astronomers.

Stargazing is fun, but learning the stars, constellations, and the fine points of using telescopes is very tough to do on your own.

2. Access to an observing site, telescopes, and other equipment.

A safe, peaceful place away from the lights to observe the stars from is precious and hard to come by. Telescopes and other equipment can be expensive. CAS Members can use the Conway Observatory site 24/7. The Society maintains loaner telescopes up to 8" aperture that can be signed out by members and taken home. The Conway Observatory itself is very well equipped for member use. CAS Members who complete required training can use the observatory for personal use when it is available. CAS also maintains a considerable library of books and videos onsite at Conway. Members can view these at the observatory or check them out and take them home.

3. Access to a network of information and people.

CAS maintains a private internet group, CAS Discourse, that allows communication among members concerning celestial events and observing. Want to go observing tonight? Find others to go with you on CAS Discourse.

4. A way to contribute.

CAS is an IRS 501c(3) not for profit organization dedicated to education and outreach for the science of astronomy. CAS members share their knowledge and the beauty of the night sky through public observing events and educational outreach programs. CAS Members can make a difference!

5. It's a great value!

CAS memberships are a "family" membership - your spouse and minor children are included! At just $40.00 a year, this is less than some magazine subscriptions! JOIN TODAY! The membership application is available through a link on the Home page. Send your check and completed application to: Calumet Astronomical Society, Inc. PO Box 851 Griffith, Iindiana, 46319.

JOIN TODAY!