New to Astronomy?
Welcome to the world of astronomy and stargazing in Minnesota. The Minnesota Astronomical Society is here to help you get started – you don't even need to own a telescope! All you need is an interest to explore the universe. Request an Outreach EventExplore The Beginners Special Interest GroupParticipate in any upcoming public event!
>Subscribe to the MAS YouTube Channel
There is a lot of video content from the Minnesota Astronomical Society on our YouTube channel. Subscribe for free today!
Read the Gemini Newsletter
The Gemini newsletter of the MAS is a great resource for all to learn about the Society and the activities that our members participate in.
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Attend a Star Party
Find out more about Star Parties and what FAQs you need to know when you attend your first!
There’s a Place for You
It’s Time to Explore
Interested in space exploration? Making your own telescope? Or maybe you just want to learn about Minnesota’s night sky. Resources for all of that and more are available at the Minnesota Astronomical Society! Our 450+ members vary in experience, knowledge, and specialized interest – but we all share in learning about astronomy and the wonders of the cosmos. Whether it’s attending an event or checking out the MAS discussion forums, there are many ways to start your journey here.
Astronomy Discussion Forums
Attend an Event
Our Sites & Facilities
Ready?
Plan Your Night Viewing
In planning your night viewing, here are resources for what to view, when, and where to look. You can also view site-specific weather information.
Beginners Resources
What to See in the Night Sky
- Sky & Telescope’s Sky at a Glance or Explore the Night Sky with Bob King
- Astronomy Magazine’s Tonight’s Sky
- Heavens Above Predictions
- NASA Night Sky Network’s Night Sky Planner
- Free monthly Sky Maps at Skymaps.com
- StarDate Magazine’s Stargazing Information
- EarthSky Tonight
Observing Programs
MAS Observing Sites
- Eagle Lake Observatory
- Cherry Grove Observatory
- Joseph J. Casby Observatory
- Long Lake Conservation Center
- Metcalf Field