About St. Petersburg Astronomy Club

For nearly a century, SPAC has been bringing the wonders of the night sky to Tampa Bay. We're a community of amateur astronomers, educators, and stargazers united by our passion for exploring the cosmos.

Our Mission

Making Astronomy Accessible to All

The St. Petersburg Astronomy Club is dedicated to promoting astronomy education, providing observing opportunities, and fostering a community of amateur astronomers in the Tampa Bay area.

Whether you're looking through a telescope for the first time or you're an experienced deep-sky observer, SPAC welcomes you to join our community of stargazers.

97+
Years Active
300+
Members
12+
Annual Events
1000s
Students Reached
Our History

A Legacy of Stargazing

1927

Club founded in St. Petersburg, Florida

1950s

Began regular public observing sessions

1970s

Established Mirror Lab for telescope making

1980s

First Orange Blossom Special star party held

2000s

Expanded outreach to schools and community

Today

Over 300 active members and growing

Leadership

Board of Directors

Meet our dedicated volunteer leadership team.

Michael Partain

Michael Partain

President

Guy Earle

Vice President

Peter McLean

Secretary

Christian Rubach

Treasurer

Allen Maroney

2025 Director

Steve Gaber

2023 Director

Guy Earle

SPACE Editor

Peter McLean

Membership Chair

Michael Partain

OBS Chair

Jamie Kenas

Astrophotography Chair

Steve Gaber

Outreach Chair

Paul McNabb

Mirror Lab Chair

Allen Maroney

Webmaster

Affiliations

Our Partners & Affiliations

Astronomical Society of the Pacific

The world's largest general astronomy society, connecting scientists, educators, and enthusiasts.

Learn more

International Dark-Sky Association

Working to protect the night sky from light pollution for present and future generations.

Learn more

Ready to Join Us?

Become a member today and start exploring the universe with fellow astronomy enthusiasts.

Join SPAC