As of the 1st January 2009 the East Antrim Astronomical Society (EAAS) has changed its name to the Northern Ireland Amateur Astronomy Society (NIAAS).
To celebrate this event the January meeting on Monday 5th is NIAAS Launch Party. This will be a very special evening for all, with both telescopes and members' photographs on display, and refreshments will be available on the night.
In addition we will be honouring Dave Mc Donald, an IFAS Astronomer of the Year and recent discoverer of the first asteroid from Ireland since 1848, in Great Famine times. Dave has also agreed to give a talk on his discovery titled: "Celtic Rock - Hunting for Asteroids".
Dr Miruna Popescu, IYA2009-Ireland secretary, will also give a short talk about the International Year of Astronomy 2009 in Ireland.