Explore the Universe from your Doorstep

Interested in astronomy or looking for an astronomical club in Northampton? From distant galaxies to the night sky above Northamptonshire, explore the wonders of the universe with NNHS Astronomy and Stargazing in Northamptonshire

1st & last Monday of each month · starts at 7:30 PM – Please check our What’s On page for exact meeting dates, as these may occasionally vary.

Astronomy Section

The Astronomy Section of NNHS is Northamptonshire’s original and largest astronomical society. Founded in 1957 at the Humfrey Rooms Northampton, we have spent nearly seven decades exploring the night sky and bringing the vastness of the universe a little closer to home. From the early days of the Space Age to today’s era of smart space telescopes and Mars rovers, we’ve shared the excitement of discovery every step of the way.

Everyone is welcome – you don’t need to be a member or an expert to come along. Absolute beginners with a passion to know more are always warmly welcomed. Visitors can attend up to three meetings before deciding to become a member. One NNHS Membership gives you access to meetings across all our different Sections, so you are free to explore as many interests as you like!

A Place for Everyone Who Looks Up

Our Astronomy meetings are a chance to explore the universe in more depth, share observations and learn from people with a genuine passion for the night sky.

Topics range from planets, stars and distant galaxies to space missions, astronomical discoveries, observing techniques and equipment. Our experienced amateur astronomers are always happy to share their knowledge, offer practical advice and help others get more from astronomy.

You don’t need a telescope or any specialist equipment – just an interest in what’s happening in the skies above us and beyond.

Discover, Learn, and Experience

Our programme is as wide-ranging as the universe itself. Through illustrated talks, discussions and practical observing evenings, we explore everything from the birth and death of stars to black holes, distant galaxies and newly discovered exoplanets. We follow the latest space missions and astronomical discoveries, but also enjoy the simple pleasure of stepping outside and learning to recognise the constellations in the skies above Northamptonshire.

We also occasionally meet for stargazing sessions, sharing telescopes, knowledge and tips along the way. There’s nothing quite like seeing Saturn’s rings through an eyepiece, exploring the craters and mountains of the Moon, or watching a meteor streak across the night sky. And that unmistakable “wow” when someone sees a planet through a telescope for the first time? That never gets old. Details of any planned observing sessions will be listed on our What’s On page. Image credit NASA/JPL/Space Institute

Join Us

Ready to explore?
Astronomy Section meetings take place at the Humfrey Rooms, Northampton, at 7.30pm on the second and last Monday of each month. Please check our What’s On page for the exact dates and details of upcoming meetings, as our usual meeting pattern may occasionally change due to Bank Holidays and other circumstances.

We look forward to meeting you, just chose a meeting from our What’s on page and come and experience NNHS Astronomy for yourself.