Support MRO

 

There are many ways you can support MRO.

If you have any questions or further inquiries about supporting MRO do not hesitate to contact us!

Friends of MRO

Cultivate your passion for astronomy, education, and public outreach by becoming a part of Magdalena Ridge Observatory’s member-based support organization!

Each membership of Friends of MRO directly supports MRO in our mission and facilitates the development of educational outreach programs. As a member, your support will assist with research to further expand our knowledge of the frontiers of space and astrophysics.

Friends of the MRO have the unique opportunity to share in exciting, in the moment, scientific breakthroughs. Membership allows Friends access to the latest observatory developments and includes invitations to private, members-only, events and activities.

 

Membership Type Annual Cost Benefits
Observer (individual)

      $50
  • Exclusive member-only access to advance reservations for public events
  • Monthly electronic newsletter
  • Single admission to one Day Tour or Star Party
  • Shopping discount of 10% on MRO merchandise
Observer Dual (two people)

      $80
  • Observer benefits for two people
Observer Family (up to five people)

     $125
  • Observer benefits for up to five people (two adults and three minors)
Solar System

     $250
  • Includes all Observer benefits, PLUS:
  • Printed Annual Newsletter
  • Recognition on MRO website and in printed Annual Newsletter
  • Two additional Day Tour or Star Party admissions (four total)
Galaxy

     $500
  • Includes all Solar System benefits, PLUS:
  • Invitations to exclusive Galaxy Events
  • Shopping discount of 15% on MRO merchandise
Universal Donor

    $5000 and above
  • Includes all Galaxy benefits, PLUS:
  • Private Tour and Dinner at the Observatory (for up to eight people) with the MRO Program Director and Senior Observatory Staff

MRO deeply values support from our philanthropic partners. Gifts advance our mission of education, outreach, and discovery. This listing recognizes our supporters at the Solar System level and above who have made contributions between July 1, 2017 to the present.

You may also support the MRO through donations via NEW MEXICO TECH GIVING page.  Please select Magdalena Ridge Observatory in the drop-down menu under “Designation”.

 

Where Does My Money Go?

Education

  • Teacher Professional Development Workshops
  • Student field experience, on-site and distance learning
  • Resources for minority students
  • Funding for graduate student observing time

Public Outreach

  • Developing online resources
  • Developing public information materials
  • Star Parties

Education and Public Outreach

  • Conferences
  • Exhibitions
  • Open house & community days

Facilities

  • New Main Visitor Center
  • Public telescopes & domes
  • Facilities and equipment for the on-site visitor center
  • Facilities for amateur astronomers

Gift Planning

Individuals who wish to support MRO and the important work of improving science education may find gift planning to be an excellent way to make a charitable contribution tailored to their own unique circumstances and financial needs. Membership in the MRO follows for anyone giving to MRO through estate planning.

A planned gift may meet your goals and benefit your family by:

  • Bringing immediate and deferred tax advantages to you and your heirs
  • Creating an income for you and your family for life, with tax deductions
  • Enabling you to give property or real estate to charity, while avoiding capital gains taxes
  • Establishing a legacy during your lifetime
  • Enabling you to give a more significant gift than could otherwise be made, while also taking care of your family and heirs

For information on how to achieve your financial goals, while supporting MRO and the work of improving science education, please talk to your financial adviser. You may also support the MRO through donations via NEW MEXICO TECH GIVING page or you can complete the donation contact form below and we will send you further information about helping Magdalena Ridge Observatory.

Corporate and Foundation Giving

Businesses and foundations have a unique opportunity to partner with MRO to make a difference in the lives of students, teachers and scientists nationwide. The Observatory’s Education and Outreach Program is dedicated to increasing science literacy in the US. You may also support the MRO through donations via NEW MEXICO TECH GIVING page or you can complete the donation contact form below and we will send you further information about helping Magdalena Ridge Observatory.

Endowments

Endowed gifts to MRO have the potential to create a legacy for generations to come. You may also support the MRO through donations via NEW MEXICO TECH GIVING page or you can complete the donation contact form below and we will send you further information about helping Magdalena Ridge Observatory.

Donation Contact Form