The offices of the Royal Astronomical Society (RAS) will be closed to all Fellows, Friends and members of the public from 2 November 2026 to 4 January 2027 while essential maintenance works take place.
What this means for events
During this period a limited number of pre-arranged events will still go ahead as planned, including the Society's monthly Specialist Discussion Meetings, A&G Highlights and Public Talks programme. Details of these are on the RAS website.
Use of the RAS library
Researchers will not be able to visit the library during this time but the library and archive team will be on hand to support any research. Enquires will be answered via email at librarian@ras.ac.uk and phone on 0207 292 3963.
The team will continue to offer scans of material and will also offer a virtual reading room service, through which readers can view selected material remotely with a member of staff via a Teams video call.
This can help readers establish whether material is relevant to research before deciding whether to request scans or plan an in-person visit once the building reopens.
Please contact the library and archives team to discuss your information needs or to arrange a virtual reading room appointment.
If you have a query
The RAS would like to thank all members and visitors for their patience and understanding during this period and apologises for any inconvenience caused. If you have any questions, please email info@ras.ac.uk