Professional Organizations in Physics and Astronomy
The American Association of Physics Teachers's mission is to enhance the understanding and appreciation of physics through teaching. With more than 10,000 members worldwide, AAPT provides teachers with many opportunities for professional development, networking, and student enrichment.
The American Astronomical Society is the principal organization of professional astronomers in North America. Its membership consists of over 6500 astronomers, physicists, mathematicians, engineers, geologists, and others.
The American Institute of Physics is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit membership corporation created for the purpose of promoting the advancement and diffusion of the knowledge of physics and its application to human welfare. It is the mission of the Institute to serve the sciences of physics and astronomy by serving its member societies, by serving individual scientists, and by serving students and the general public.
The American Physical Society has fourteen divisions and nine topical groups covering all areas of physics research. There are six forums that reflect the interest of its 46,000 members in broader issues, and eight sections organized by geographical region. Mission: "In the firm belief that an understanding of the nature of the physical universe will be of benefit to all humanity, the Society shall have as its objective the advancement and diffusion of the knowledge of physics."
The members of the Minnesota Area Association of Physics Teachers work to advance and disseminate the knowledge and teaching of physics in the Minnesota area. Membership is open to anyone interested in and supporting the objectives of the MAAPT. Most members are working at area colleges and universities, but many high school teachers also participate; students are also encouraged to attend and to make presentations at the annual meetings.
