The RAS Observatory is one of a group of related activities that are part of a complex network of interacting organizations and services. All of these related services are dedicated to fostering international cooperation and collaboration in the name of research. Rent-a-scope, the initial startup service, began operations in 2001. Listed below, please find the major components to our total organization. as it stands today:

• Remote Astronomical Society of New Mexico
• The RAS Observatory
• International Consortium of Robotic Astronomical Researchers
• The RAS Observatory Archive
• Rent-a-scope
• Global Rent-a-scope
• Global-Rent-a-scope Forums

What we do?

In a three words: Research and Fun. RASO observers use a certain amount of their telescope time to collect scientific data. Some of these data are sent to such organizations as the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, the U.S. Naval Observatory, and the American Association of Variable Star Observers to be compiled for the use of professional astronomers in support of research projects ranging from identifying near Earth Asteroids (NEOs) to studies of Blazars. Some of these data are published in scientific journals by RASO observers, often in concert with professional astronomers. RASO observers also spend time having fun, imaging the deep sky with the state-of-the-art telescopes and CCD equipment available through RASO membership.

How it works?

RASO is a self-funded global network of remote, robotic, observatories. Members subscribe to the services offered by the observatory and access to the telescopes and other equipment. This puts professional-level research tools within the reach of those who cannot afford to invest upwards to $80,000 in a separate remote telescope, much less an observatory under some of the darkest skies in North America, Australia and Israel!

Let’s face it, doesn’t it make more sense to join an astronomy activity where your dues provide you with access to use some of the finest astronomical equipment in the world? Imagine using Takahashi, Mewlon 300’s, Epsilons E250’s, TOA150 and FSQ’s all with exotic filters that cost more than most amateurs spend in 5 years on their hobby. All of this for your use for less than a few dollars a day! Also we provide 24/7 live support from experienced advisors. Yes real people to address your issues mostly right on the spot.

While we are at it, doesn’t it also make a lot more sense to actually control your own system rather than to sit around and watch someone else do what they want while you pay the bill? Wouldn’t you prefer to be in control of your own space telescope system just like the professional astronomers? 

RASO puts astronomical research and imaging within the grasp of anyone who is connected to the Internet, worldwide. The net result is RASO, in conjunction with GRAS, provides everyone interested in conducting research or to participate in CCD astronomical imaging the tools to meet their objectives in the most efficient and cost effective manner.

At GRAS, you are in command: 

• You control the systems.
• You decide what targets to capture
• The data is totally yours to use as you see fit.
• The images are all in the scientific image FIT format
• Using GRAS systems is the real thing not a dress rehearsal!

Let’s talk about meaningful results

Our private and team researchers have contributed thousands of observations and discoveries over the last few years alone. We are one of the few observatory networks that has 4 MPC codes. H06, the Mayhill, New Mexico observatory alone has submitted close to 2000 observations and our observers have made hundreds of discoveries. Click on the link to the society’s web site for more information on this fascinating area of research.

So there you have it! Pretty much the whole story on how you can achieve the recognition as a real contributor to science. Get your name in the historical records as an important contributor to the scientific knowledge base. Yes...that is correct....you are a few simple steps away making a difference most people only dream of and only talk about. Here is your chance to actually do it!

Membership is only a click away! Join RASO today!!!

Basic Individual System Schematic

Global Rent-a-scope Wide-area Network

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