Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS after sunset by Paul Whitmarsh Aurora Borealis seen from Lewes by Robert Massey Lewes Castle at night Partial Solar Eclipse over Newhaven harbour taken from Seaford beach Summer Solstice on Malling Hill Whirlpool Galaxy by Roy Marriott Enjoying a summer evening tour of Harvey's Brewery

Next LAS Meeting

7th October 2026

Stars & Stoolball - A Short History of Herstmonceux Observatory

Ian Whiteley

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.

Full details

About Us

We are a friendly, inclusive community who share a curiosity about the Universe. Visitors are welcome at our meetings and other public events.

Based in the county town of East Sussex, the Lewes Astronomical Society was launched in September 2022, growing to 178 members within 4 years. Our heritage dates back at least 50 years as a small group known as the Lewes Astronomers.

Despite our growth, our ethos remains simple: to encourage interest in and understanding of astronomy and related sciences among people living in Lewes and the surrounding area. Our members include complete beginners, experienced amateurs, and professional astronomers.

We organise monthly talks, stargazing evenings, social activities and outreach events throughout the year, providing opportunities for people of all ages and levels of experience to discover and enjoy astronomy as a community.

 

Join Us

Our membership season runs for 12 months from 1st September each year. Membership includes admission to our public talks, which are usually given by guest speakers. These meetings are normally held on the first Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Subud Centre, Lewes BN7 2DS.

Annual membership is £18.

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

Contact Us

For general enquiries about our society, please send an email to secretary@lewesas.org.uk.

For more specific enquiries, you are welcome to contact any of our team shown on our committee page.