Formed in 1890, the British Astronomical Association has an international reputation for the quality of its observational and scientific work. Membership is open to all persons interested in astronomy.
Objectives
The encouragement of all aspects of observational astronomy 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.
BAA Handbook Questionnaire
Now that the closing date for completing the questionnaire as part of our Handbook Survey has passed, I can report that we have received a total of 234 completed forms. 120 of these were completed via the on-line form, and the remaining 114 arrived in paper form largely by post.
The survey is a very comprehensive one and will take a few weeks to analyse. A large fraction of the forms contain useful comments, which will be very helpful in deciding what changes / additions are made in future editions. Where possible, time-permitting, some changes will be introduced in the 2009 edition.
As part of the questionnaire, we asked you whether you would prefer a PDF version of the Handbook. This was not meant to imply that we might switch from paper to PDF, rather the opposite in fact. We shall be improving the paper version but at the same time we will continue to make a PDF version available to members via the online "members' only" part of the website. Indeed, the use of the web to disseminate Handbook-type information opens up a number of other possibilities which will be of benefit to our members and these will be explored over the coming months.
Finally, I would like to pass on my thanks to those 234 people who took the time and trouble to complete the form: your input is greatly appreciated. Watch out for the feedback to come summarising the results.
Richard Miles
BAA Vice-President
The 2008 Handbook is still available for purchase, price only £8.50, from our online store, or through the BAA Office.
Now that the closing date for completing the questionnaire as part of our Handbook Survey has passed, I can report that we have received a total of 234 completed forms. 120 of these were completed via the on-line form, and the remaining 114 arrived in paper form largely by post.
