King Charles III accepts patronage of RAS

In a recent announcement, it was revealed that King Charles III has accepted the patronage of the Royal Astronomical Society, continuing an unbroken tradition that spans almost 200 years. The reigning monarch's patronage of the Society dates back to the Royal Charter signed by King William IV on March 7, 1831. Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September 2022, held the title for nearly seven decades.

King Charles III accepts RAS patronage

Before 1831, the Society was known as the "Astronomical Society of London," having been founded in 1820. The transition to its current name and royal patronage marked a significant evolution in its history.

Buckingham Palace expressed great pleasure in sharing this news, highlighting that it coincides with the first anniversary of the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The Palace also noted that King Charles III was "delighted to accept" the role.

Philip Diamond, executive director of the Royal Astronomical Society, expressed his excitement about the news. “We are thrilled and very proud that His Majesty King Charles III has chosen to become our patron," he said. "It maintains an unbroken tradition of almost 200 years and ensures a continued close connection between the Society and the Royal Family. The patronage is also a fantastic recognition of the importance of our work to support and promote astronomy, geophysics, and solar system science."

The Royal Astronomical Society looks forward to the continued support and recognition from the Royal Family under the patronage of King Charles III, as it advances its mission to promote and support the sciences of astronomy and geophysics.