The Western Amateur Astronomers was formed in 1949 by professional and amateur astronomers as a regional group of astronomical organizations in the western states to combine their efforts to educate the public, promote a better understanding of the field of astronomy and encourage the collaboration between professional and amateur astronomers for astronomical research.

WAA was incorporated in California as a non-profit educational organization in 1952.

WAA helps local astronomy groups organize, sponsors, and participates in conferences and awards the G. Bruce Blair award.

WAA publishes The New Pacific Stargazer, a newsletter for Amateur Astronomers compiled from articles chosen from our member clubs.