Close-up of M27, the Dumbbell Nebula in Vulpecula

PIA04249: An aging star's last hurrah creates a flurry of glowing knots of gas that appear to be streaking through space. This closeup image of the Dumbbell Nebula was taken by the JPL-built and designed Wide Field and Planetary 2 Camera, onboard NASA's Hubble Space Telescope.                                            Image courtesy of NASA

Special Autumn Event: Stella-Della-Valley XXII

Our Mission

The Bucks-Mont Astronomical Association (BMAA) is a group of amateur astronomers working together to improve astronomical knowledge and observational skills. We make ourselves and our instruments available to promote public interest in astronomy. BMAA members are a varied group of colleagues who share a curiosity about the sky. Some members are scientists or engineers, while others are artists or craftspeople, building contractors or college students. Ability levels span the range from novice to expert. BMAA members organize and participate in a variety of astronomy related programs:

• Monthly Meetings

Members and guest speakers present lectures or demonstrations on astronomical topics, followed by a group observing session. Meetings are held at the Peace Valley Nature Center north of Doylestown, PA.
• StarParties

Members gather at one of several dark-sky sites to help each other hone observing and astrophotography skills.
• StarWatches

StarWatches are conducted at several nature centers. The public is invited for an evening of stargazing and observing tips provided by BMAA members and their telescopes.
• Astronomy Day  An annual event, a day long series of workshops and demonstrations to promote interest in astronomy.
• Stella-Della-Valley

An annual astronomical weekend StarFest in which members and guests participate in workshops, dark-sky observing, bartering of equipment and many other activities.
• Special Programs  BMAA members take part in seminars and educational activities sponsored by the Franklin Institute, the Astronomical League and neighboring astronomy clubs.
• Educational outreach  BMAA is a community resource, offering astronomy programs to schools, youth groups and civic organizations.