West Didsbury Astronomical Society (WDAS) turns 25 this May. The society will celebrate at their July meeting with members sharing their astronomical stories, photos, and memories from the past 25 years.
“WDAS’s philosophy is simple,” explains WDAS Chair, Phil Brocklebank. “We aim to bring together people from all sections of society who have an interest in astronomy. Our meetings are relaxed and friendly. All are welcome including beginners.”
WDAS’s story began in 1999 when physics teacher, John Thompson, started running six-week stargazing courses at Fielden College in Didsbury. His love of astronomy was infectious and the stargazing classes quickly turned into a GCSE course with lessons continuing in the pub after the college closed.
John floated the idea of setting up a society at the college which was met with enthusiasm. The inaugural meeting was held in May 2001 when the committee was formed and constitution agreed.
Since then, there have been 277 meetings made up of: 229 evening talks from professional and amateur astronomers, 18 quizzes, 30 AGMs and Members evenings. Plus, they have had 10 workshops, 30 field trips to dark sites, 25 local observing sessions, 24 meals out and 7 talks to local groups.
During lockdown WDAS quickly moved their meetings online and set up an Observing WhatsApp group for members to stay in touch and still feel part of their astro community. A dedicated Astrophotography WhatsApp group has also been added to the mix. WDAS photographers are producing some fantastic images which can be seen on the WDAS website. Now back to face-to-face meetings, Zoom has been maintained for members who can’t make it to meetings as well as enabling the Committee to invite speakers from across the UK and overseas.
WDAS would like to thank John Thompson for help in getting it started, all the speakers who have generously given their time and shared their knowledge, and members for turning out to hear the talks and attend events. Thanks also go to the Committee for organising and running the society.
“The Society is going from strength to strength with more members than ever in 2026,” says Phil. “What’s more, as established all those years ago, members still go to the pub after meetings to continue with astro-chat and cementing friendships.”
WDAS will be at the Didsbury Summer Festival on 6th June 2026. They would love for people interested in astronomy to drop by and say hello.
WDAS meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, except August, at Nazarene Theological College, between 7 – 9pm.
For meeting details and more please visit: www.wdas2.com
For more information please contact the Society’s secretary, Susie Busby:
chair@wdas2.com
