The section aims to disseminate knowledge of the solar system among members of the Society and the general public. This is achieved by section reports at general meetings, newsletter articles, the conduct of seminars and workshops and by regular section meetings where all members and friends are free to attend.

The section aims to study the solar system and to encourage members to learn the techniques applied to planetary observation and data reduction so that the efforts of section members may be put to good scientific use. All projects are chosen with the objective of discovery and the advancement of the science of astronomy.

The section aims to provide an enjoyable social environment for people of similar interests. This is an important function of the section because most people join the Society for recreational purposes.

The section holds a monthly meeting as advertised in the ASV Newsletter. The meeting is informal and usually involves observing the planets and discussing observational results.