Information for AAS Agents

While membership numbers in the AAS are quite steady, a large number of practicing astronomers do not belong to the AAS. The Society works for all astronomers — managing journals, organizing meetings, providing career and educational resources, and advocating for our discipline in Washington — all services essential to the success of our field and the individuals who work in it. Everyone who is involved in our efforts to enhance and share humanity’s scientific understanding of the universe should support the Society’s work.

Currently, the AAS Agents model has a department enroll students by supporting their dues for two years; in such cases, the Society would then match this commitment. Thus, for one departmental payment of $144 (twice the current Graduate Student Member dues), the applying student would have free AAS membership for four years: two years with departmental support and two years with support from the AAS. This would be a concrete symbol of welcoming students to the profession while establishing membership as an important (and routine) part of being an astronomer.

Most departments and observatories have a regular tea, wine and cheese party, pizza lunch, etc. A portion of one of these events that gathers a large fraction of the local population could be dedicated to providing information about the AAS and fielding questions. Strange as it may seem, many astronomers don’t realize that the Society owns and manages the highest-impact astronomy journals in the world, that it provides state-of-the-art conference-organizing services for topical meetings, that it hosts a variety of resources and runs programs for public education, and that it serves as a highly effective voice in Washington for advancing our field and in supporting federal investment in research and education. There are many opportunities for astronomers at all levels to become involved through AAS divisions, committees, working groups, and programs such as Astronomy Ambassadors and Communicating With Washington. A more knowledgeable and involved membership makes for a stronger and more effective Society.

The Society exists to serve its members. The Board of Trustees, a number of committees, and the Executive Office constantly evaluate the Society’s programs and think about ways to improve what we offer. However, we are far from the sole repository of good ideas; broader consultation can only be helpful.

Crucial policy issues require citizen participation. When a major policy decision is about to be made, letters, calls, and visits to Congress by astronomers in each state and district can produce large effects. Having local agents who can walk into a colleague’s office instead of hoping he or she responds to a mass email would substantially boost our effectiveness.

First, there will be a reception at each winter AAS meeting for the Agents at which we will exchange information, collect feedback, and thank you for your efforts. Secondly, we will make available to each Agent one half-price registration discount for one AAS meeting per year for a designee of your choosing.

• Benefits of Membership
• Classes of Membership
• Dues & Subscription Fees
• New Individual Membership
• Renewing or Reinstating Membership

• The AAS Topical Conference Series
• Content of AAS Meetings (Session Types, etc.)
• List of Future Winter & Summer AAS Meetings
• List of Past Winter & Summer AAS Meetings
• How to Register for AAS Meetings
• Summer Meeting Session Proposal Information & Deadlines
• Winter Meeting Session Proposal Information & Deadlines

• AAS Journals & Other Publications

• AAS Bylaws
• AAS Mission & Vision Statement
• AAS Strategic Plan
• Current AAS Board of Trustees
• AAS Executive Office Staff