About Us
We're a friendly astronomy group based in Lewes, the county town of East Sussex. Whether you're passionate or just curious about astronomy, an expert or complete novice, everyone is welcome. Our activities are designed to suit all levels of interest, knowledge, and experience within the field of astronomy.
Our heritage dates back at least five decades as a small group known as the Lewes Astronomers. Astronomy has made significant strides during that time, yet it remains one of the few scientific disciplines in which amateurs can play a useful role.
Relaunched in 2022 as the Lewes Astronomical Society, we now have 178 members and are proud to count the Mayor of Lewes among them. Despite our growth, our ethos remains simple: to promote all aspects of astronomy in a friendly and inclusive environment for people living around the Lewes area.
Join Us
Our membership season runs for 12 months from 1st September each year. Membership includes free admission to our public talks, which are usually presented by guest speakers. These meetings are normally held on the first Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Subud Centre in Lewes, BN7 2DS.
We also arrange extra events throughout the year, such as stargazing evenings. Our events are a great way to meet amateurs and professionals in the field of astronomy and make new friends.
Join us now to enjoy membership until 31st August 2027. See our membership page for more details.
Find Us
Our monthly public meetings are held in the Assembly Hall at the newly-renovated Lewes Subud Centre, East Sussex BN7 2DS (formerly Lewes New School). Entrance is in Talbot Terrace. Municipal car parks are free after 5pm. The Brook Street car park is just a few minutes easy walk from the venue.
Latitude 50.8765N Longitude 0.00835E /// tripled.collide.flattens
Next Event
Stars & Stoolball; A Short History of Herstmonceux Observatory.
Ian Whiteley
Subud Centre, Lewes BN7 2DS
7th October 2026 at 7:30pm
Herstmonceux has played a remarkable role in the history of British astronomy. From the construction of the Royal Greenwich Observatory's new home in Sussex in the 1950s, through decades of pioneering astronomical research, to its transformation into the Observatory Science Centre and Museum, the site has witnessed some fascinating chapters in the story of astronomy.
Ian will take us on a short journey through the history of the Observatory, exploring why the Royal Greenwich Observatory moved from Greenwich to Herstmonceux, and some of the important astronomical work carried out there. We'll discover what life was like for the astronomers and staff who worked at the site and hear about the people, discoveries and events that helped establish Herstmonceux as an important centre for British astronomy.
The talk will also look at the Observatory's later history, including the move of the Royal Greenwich Observatory to Cambridge and the eventual creation of the Science Centre, which today allows visitors to explore many of the original buildings and instruments.
Ian is generously donating his speaker's fee to the Science Centre, helping to support the preservation of this unique piece of Britain's astronomical heritage.
Contact Us
For general enquiries about our society, please send an email to secretary@lewesas.org.uk. Alternatively, for more specific enquiries, you are welcome to contact any of our team members shown on our committee page.