Our Society unites in promoting excellence in all facets of planetarium education and programming.
We endeavor to enhance the personnel and the facilities of our members by becoming a source of information and a medium for exchange of ideas.
Who We Are
In 1965, several planetarium educators met in Washington, D.C. and formed the framework of our organization: The Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society (MAPS). Along with other regional societies, MAPS is a member of the International Planetarium Society (IPS) and is an affiliate of the National Science Teacher’s Association (NSTA).
Today, MAPS consists of over 100 planetarium professionals representing large museums, schools, universities and portable planetariums from 13 states.
Benefits of your membership
- Annual subscription to The Constellation, our quarterly electronic newsletter.
- An invitation to attend the annual MAPS Conference.
- Access to Members-Only Content on the MAPS website.
- Access to our online forum, a groups.io site.
- Teacher mentoring, advice and help available through the MAPS Mentoring Program.
- Voting privileges to vote for colleagues who will serve as your representatives on the MAPS Board.
- Transcript of the proceedings of the annual conference.
- Complementary or reduced rate publications of interest to planetarians.
- Support and membership in a community of professionals that are dedicated to astronomy and science education.
- In order to qualify for the status of Life Member in MAPS, a member must have a minimum of seven consecutive years working within the region of the Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society.
The Society shall cultivate, foster and promote excellence in all facets of the planetarium profession, including research, education and programming. The Society shall strive to advance the personnel and facilities of its members by being a source of information and a medium for the exchange of ideas, services and resources among its membership.
MAPS Mission Statement
Join Now!
Become a part of the Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society for just $25 a year—and unlock exclusive member benefits, including professional networking, access to grants and scholarships, our quarterly newsletter, affinity groups, mentoring, and discounted conference registration.
Click below to apply online today and start making the most of your planetarium career!