About VCAS

The mission of VCAS is to inform and educate Ventura County residents about astronomy and to promote interest in, and encourage participation in, astronomy as a hobby.

  The Ventura County Astronomical Society (VCAS) was officially established in 1971, having evolved from the "Oxnard Model Rocket and Astronomy Club" in the 1960s and the "Ventura County Astronomy Association" in the late 1960s. By 1979, the society was an established, active group of amateur astronomers in California, dedicated to observational astronomy, star parties, and community education. 

• 1971 Formalization: The club solidified its name as the Ventura County Astronomical Society in 1971.
• Purpose: The society serves to promote interest in astronomy through monthly meetings, public star parties, and expert-led lectures.
• Milestones: The club celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021, marking five decades of operation. Was one of the benefactors in the construction of the Charles Temple Observatory at Moorpark College (1987). Also, Ventura County Astronomical Society hosted Astrocon 2000.
• Activity Level: Throughout the late 1970s, the organization provided a, platform for local astronomy enthusiasts to share, observe, and learn, serving as a hub for amateur astronomers in the area. 

VCAS is a Non-Profit Organization

EIN: 95-3152618

The VENTURA COUNTY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, INCORPORATED, is a non-profit Education/Research Association registered in accordance with both state and federal law as a 501 (c) 3 entity.