Message from the President

As we enter the second month of 2025, we find ourselves amid an extraordinary time for celestial events, an opportunity not just to marvel at the skies but to bring astronomy to the public in a way that captivates and inspires. Last month, we witnessed the stunning occultation of Mars by the Moon—a rare event that left observers in awe. For those who braved the cold January skies, the Red Planet slipping behind the lunar limb was a spectacular reminder of the wonders above us. Events like this fuel our passion for astronomy, but more importantly, they serve as a powerful tool for engaging the public.
This month, we eagerly anticipate another remarkable event: a parade of planets in the evening sky. Between February 25 and February 28, six planets—Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus—will be visible just after sunset from our vantage point in New York City. This alignment offers an incredible chance to inspire curiosity and showcase the magic of the cosmos to the broader community. As members of the Amateur Astronomy Association, we have a mission: to make astronomy accessible and to share our passion with as many people as possible. Rare astronomical events serve as perfect moments to do just that. When the public sees something extraordinary in the night sky, their natural curiosity is sparked—our role is to be there, ready to guide them, answer their questions, and welcome them into the world of astronomy.
We encourage all members to participate in outreach efforts, whether by joining our public observing sessions, bringing friends and family out to see these planetary wonders, or simply sharing your enthusiasm and knowledge in person or online. If you have access to a telescope, consider setting it up in a park or open space and inviting passersby to take a look—some of the most rewarding moments come from the excitement of a first-time observer peering at Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons. Let’s seize these celestial moments to expand our community, inspire new astronomers, and celebrate the joy of looking up together. If you would like to participate in upcoming public observing events or volunteer in any way, please reach out—we would love to have you involved.
Wishing you clear skies and great observing,
Alfredo Viegas, President