Planets in the Park
2024-12-06 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Pershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
“Planets in the Park”
* FAMILY FRIENDLY, ALL AGES *>>>On Facebook: Planets in the Park<<<
Three Planets and six Moons! Visible thru a telescope from the city. Only mildly affected by light pollution.
Friday, Dec 6, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PMPershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street
Arrive on time if you want to see Venus before it sets. 6:00 PM.
Clear or CloudyCancelled if snowing or stormyDRESS WARMLY!!!!! The clearer the sky, the colder the star party!

BSIG Winter Zoom Presentation - Globular Clusters: Why They Are So Cool!
2024-12-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Meeting Using Zoom
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM..
Featured Speaker: Claire WeaverlingTopic: Globular Clusters: Why They Are So Cool!
Synopsis: December isn’t exactly globular season. Yet winter is the perfect time to plan ahead on your observing projects. Hunting globulars can be a challenging but satisfying experience, with plenty of targets for beginners. If you imagine all globular clusters look alike – think again. There is visual variety to be found. And scientific surveys of globular clusters have revealed fascinating insights into the history and composition of these gems of our night sky!
Claire is one of the most prolific visual observers in the MAS. She started with the Cedar Rapids Astronomy Club many years ago, a club her father co-founded. These days you can usually find her at Cherry Grove Observatory with her 18″ Dobsonian telescope, working diligently on an Astronomical League observing program. Previously, she conducted an excellent presentation for our Beginner Group on Winter Constellations. You can find a link to that talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7Kd6o06txM
Visit the B-SIG Discussion Forum for more information and any last minute changes.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following URL:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87906093973?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 879 0609 3973Passcode: [REDACTED]
We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker Dave Falkner
2025-01-02 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Dave Falkner
Topic: Cosmic Distance Ladder
COVID-19 PROTOCOL: Masks are welcome, but not required at the Monthly Meeting. Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85908727828?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 859 0872 7828
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG Winter Zoom Presentation - Auroras - Featuring Bob King
2025-01-11 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Meeting Using Zoom
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Bob KingTopic: “Understanding, Forecasting and Photographing the Northern Lights”
Synopsis: We’ll look at what causes the aurora, how to get alerts so you don’t miss a great show and easy ways to photograph them…
Bob King is a fellow MAS member and is well known to many amateur astronomers thru his “AstroBob” blog. He is one of the more prolific observers and commentators in amateur astronomy today. He loves comets and also enjoys viewing the Northern Lights from his home near Duluth. He writes about astronomy for Sky & Telescope magazine, and the Duluth News Tribune. He is a great speaker on all things astro, and is the author of “Magnificent Aurora”, which you can find here: https://shopatsky.com/products/magnificent-aurora
Visit the B-SIG Discussion Forum for more information and any last minute changes.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85206750082?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 852 0675 0082Passcode: [REDACTED]
We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featuring Prof. Steven Spangler
2025-02-06 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Prof. Steven Spangler (University of Iowa)
Topic: Where Do Stars Come From?
COVID-19 PROTOCOL: Masks are welcome, but not required at the Monthly Meeting. Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84532134744?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 845 3213 4744
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG Winter Zoom Presentation - Return to the Moon – The NASA Artemis Program - Featuring Dave Falkner
2025-02-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Meeting Using Zoom
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Dave Falkner – NASA AmbassadorTopic: Return to the Moon – The NASA Artemis Program
Synopsis:
“It’s been over 50 years since mankind set foot on the Moon! Now NASA wants humans to set foot back on the Moon before the end of the decade. In his presentation, Dave Falkner will talk about the events since the Apollo program that led to the Artemis program. He will then talk about the many aspects of the Artemis program with NASA, partner countries and the commercial industry all combining to put humans back on the Moon … and beyond!“

Biography of Dave Falkner:

Dave has been a life-long amateur astronomer. He first became interested in astronomy as a pre-teen when his father took him to a show at the Holcolmb Planetarium in Indianapolis. He became hooked and has had an interest in astronomy ever since.

After retiring from the US Navy, Dave settled in Minnesota and became an active member of the Minnesota Astronomical Society (MAS). He has served as its President from 2011 – 2014, 2019 – 2020, and Secretary from 2023 – 2024. As a member of the MAS, Dave enjoyed performing astronomical outreach often speaking to groups at libraries, nature centers and schools.

Dave is a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador where he educates the public about space, space exploration and NASA missions. Along with his outreach activities Dave has taught beginning Astronomy classes at a local community college and has published three boo
Visit the B-SIG Discussion Forum for more information and any last minute changes.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83367107396?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 833 6710 7396Passcode: [REDACTED]
We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

MAS March Monthly Meeting (Annual Budget Business Meeting) - Featured Speakers: Valts Treibergs & Ahmed Reda
2025-03-06 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
This will be a MAS Business meeting and we will be reviewing and voting on the 2025 Budget. A 10% Quorum of total members (or a minimum 50 members) is required.
Registration will be required in advance if participating on Zoom. After registering with your name and email address, you will be emailed the Zoom link to join the meeting. Non MAS members will also need to register to participate in the meeting, but will not be allowed to vote.
The proposed budget will be made available to MAS members in advance on Slack: https://mnastro.slack.com/archives/C08FC2RPUNS . Members can comment and ask questions. Members who are not part of the Slack community can join by sending an email to slack@mnastro.org. Copies of the budget can also be requested via email to president@mnastro.org.
Zoom registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1Z6nrbltSgKIezqO96VtFw
Featured Member Speakers:

Valts Treibergs – Restoration of Carl Zeiss Jena 63/840 1956 School Telescope
Ahmed Reda – Al Sufi – The Book of Fixed Stars

Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom – but will require pre-registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1Z6nrbltSgKIezqO96VtFw
The Zoom join link will then be emailed to you.
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG Winter Zoom Presentation - RSpec Spectroscopy - Featuring Tom Field
2025-03-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Meeting Using Zoom
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Tom FieldTopic: An Introduction to Astronomical Spectroscopy​
Synopsis: Even if you wanted to touch a star, they’re all impossibly distant. In spite of these great distances, astronomers have learned an enormous amount about stars. How? The most common method to study the stars is called spectroscopy, which is the science of analyzing the colorful rainbow spectrum produced by a prism-like device. Until recently, spectroscopy was too expensive and too complicated for all but a handful of amateurs. Today, though, new tools make spectroscopy accessible to almost all of us. You no longer need a PhD, dark skies, long exposures, enormous aperture … or a big budget! With your current telescope and FITS camera (or a simple web cam or even a DSLR without a telescope) you can now easily study the stars yourself. Wouldn’t you like to detect the atmosphere on Neptune or the red shift of a quasar right from your own backyard?!This talk, with lots of interesting examples, will show you what it’s all about and help you understand how spectroscopy is used in research. Even if you are an armchair astronomer, understanding this field will enhance your understanding of the things your read and the night sky.
Biography: Tom Field was a Contributing Editor at Sky & Telescope Magazine for ten years. He is the founder of Field Tested Systems and the author of the RSpec software, which received the S&T “Hot Product” award. A pioneer in the field of amateur astronomical spectroscopy, Tom aims to demystify spectroscopy and make it accessible to all. He promises to open the door for you to this fascinating field! You can visit the RSpec Spectroscopy website here: https://rspec-astro.com
Visit the B-SIG Discussion Forum for more information and any last minute changes.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89329843146?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 893 2984 3146 / Passcode: [REDACTED]
We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2025 ELO Public Star Party - Lunar Eclipse
2025-03-13 21:00 - 2025-03-14 03:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Come view the Total Lunar Eclipse with MAS.
This event is cancelled if cloudy.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 MAS New Member Orientation Meeting - Kaposia Library
2025-03-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Kaposia Library (South St. Paul), 131 Seventh Ave. N., South Saint Paul, MN, 55075, United States
​Rebecca Messer will be holding an in-person MAS Member Orientation Meeting on Saturday mornings a few times per year.
Any new (or old) members, or those considering joining the MAS are invited to meet us from 10:00am to 12:00pm on Saturday –
Kaposia Library
131 7th Avenue North
South St. Paul, MN 55075
In this approximately two hour meeting we will introduce the leadership of the MAS, discuss public and member star parties, provide a look at all our observing sites, discuss all the means of communications within the Society, and provide an overall description of all the benefits of membership in the MAS.
We look forward to seeing you!
Rebecca Messer
MAS Membership Coordinator

ELO Public Star Party - Features Speaker: Tim Carlson
2025-03-22 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: Tim Carlson
Topic: NASA Juno Mission to Jupiter
For nearly 10 years Juno has been exploring Jupiter and its system. This mission set out to explore Jupiter’s atmosphere, magnetosphere, and moons, to learn about the planet’s origins and evolution. Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Tim Carlson on a journey of exploration and discovery, as we work to better understand the planet and the formation of our solar system.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Feature Speaker: Prof. Roberta M. Humphreys
2025-04-03 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Prof. Roberta M. Humphreys (Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics)
Topic: Fun With Supergiants
Professor Humpreys is a Herschel Medal recipient the Royal Astronomical Society for Observational Astrophysics
COVID-19 PROTOCOL: Masks are welcome, but not required at the Monthly Meeting. Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82476380633?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 824 7638 0633
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

Planets In The Park
2025-04-04 20:30 - 22:00 | Pershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
“Planets in the Park”
* FAMILY FRIENDLY, ALL AGES *>>>On Facebook: Planets in the Park<<<
Three Planets and six Moons! Visible thru a telescope from the city. Only mildly affected by light pollution.
Friday, April 4, 8:300 PM to 10:00 PMPershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street
Clear or CloudyCancelled if snowing or stormyDRESS WARMLY!!!!! The clearer the sky, the colder the star party!

2025 ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Doug Neverman
2025-04-05 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: Doug Neverman
Title: Observing 101
Summary: Observing the universe involves more than getting out the telescope. It requires some planning. Observing 101 covers why planning is needed, terms that are used, some easy ways to plan targets, and what to expect when looking through the telescope. When complete the listener will be ready to plan an observing session and know what to expect.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

Public Star Party at Cedar Creek
2025-04-05 19:00 - 23:00, 2025-05-03 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-08-02 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-09-27 14:00 - 17:00, 2025-09-27 19:00 - 23:00, 2025-10-11 19:00 - 23:00 | Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, 2660 Fawn Lake Drive NE55005-9718, Bethel, MN, 55005-9718, United States
Public Star Party at Cedar Creek
Come and learn more about the night skies. Each star party starts with a brief presentation about astronomy. A number of telescopes will be available for night sky viewing after the program, weather dependent. NOTE: You do not need a telescope to attend, and the the cost is free.
This calendar will be updated with the latest schedule.
Directions to Cedar Creek can be found on website. Park near the Lindeman Lab Reception Hall. The telescopes will be set up adjacent to the hall near the field. Due to construction activity at Cedar Creek, please follow posted signage.

BSIG Winter Presentation - AL Programs - Featuring Jerry Jones
2025-04-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Jerry Jones – MAS Astronomical League CoordinatorTopic: AL Observing Programs
Synopsis:
TBD

This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88390582049?pwd=[REDACTED]

Meeting ID: 883 9058 2049Passcode: [REDACTED]
We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2025 ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Dave Falkner
2025-04-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: Dave Falkner – MAS Member and NASA Solar System Ambassador
Title: The Planets Through the Eyes of Robots
Summary: Our solar system has been explored almost exclusively by unmanned spacecraft. These exploration “robots” have visited each planet, made some fascinating discoveries, and sent back spectacular images. Dave will talk about each planet providing some interesting facts and showing some of the amazing images taken by these spacecraft.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

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ELO Event date (required):

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2025 BSIG Observing Session
2025-04-19 19:00 - 23:00, 2025-05-03 19:00 - 23:00, 2025-06-06 20:00 - 23:00, 2025-07-19 20:00 - 23:00, 2025-08-02 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-09-13 18:30 - 23:00 | Metcalf Field, 795 Indian Trail S, Afton, MN, 55001, United States
Are you new to MAS? Do you have a new telescope, but need some help setting it up? Join us for the Beginner’s Special Interest Group’s Observing Session. This is a free event, and open to all who want to learn!

We hope you can make it!
MAS Metcalf Observing Field
There is no charge to attend a beginner event, and you do not need to be an MAS member to attend — everyone is welcome!! The purpose is to help beginners learn the night sky, and how to set up and use a telescope. Volunteers from the MAS will be on hand to answer your questions.
If you have a telescope, feel free to bring it. If you need help with learning how to set up and use it, we are happy to help! Sign up below to be notified about any schedule changes.

If you haven’t been to Metcalf Field, it can be a little difficult to locate the entrance. So please arrive in daylight.
The BSIG Coordinator will make the final Go/No Go call on the evening of Thursday before the event, based on the weather forecast. If Friday is more favorable, then the session may be moved to Friday.
Please monitor the MAS BSIG Forum for latest updates.
If you’d like to volunteer to help out at this and future Beginner group events, please let me know.

Fill in this form to sign-up for BSIG events only.

Note: Public Star Parties at ELO do not require sign-up.

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NCRAL 2025 Conference
2025-04-25 14:00 - 2025-04-26 18:30 | MN
News: Walk-in Registrations Now Available
The planning committee has decided to offer a “walk-in” registration for $100 cash or $105 paypal to try to encourage more to attend the conference. This option does NOT include the banquet meal but does include access to all the talks, door prizes, and snacks.
There will be a Star-B-Que at Eagle Lake Observatory for a donation only on Friday evening.
For registration and program details follow the link.

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker: Chuck Allen
2025-05-01 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Chuck Allen (Astronomical League)
Topic: Perspectives on Distance
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89323520941?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 893 2352 0941
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

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Planets In The Park
2025-05-02 20:30 - 22:00 | Pershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
“Planets in the Park”
* FAMILY FRIENDLY, ALL AGES *>>>On Facebook: Planets in the Park<<<
Jpiter, Mars, Crescent Moon, Leo Virgo, Hercules, more………

Beginners’ astronomy lesson, laser sky tour, sky legends from around the world.
Friday,May 2, 8:30 PM to 10:00 PMPershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street
Clear or CloudyCancelled if rainy or stormy

Spring Astronomy Day
2025-05-03 14:00 - 23:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Saturday May 3, 2025
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Astronomical League’s Astronomy Day activities at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize drawing will be held Saturday evening and include MAS merchandise, astronomy books and telescopes. The evening will continue with viewing through our array of telescopes observing some of the winter and early spring objects coming into view including the Orion Nebula, Crab nebula, the Sombrero Galaxy, the Whirlpool Galaxy, the Beehive Cluster, the Black Eye Galaxy and Hercules cluster among many others.
Schedule of Events
The observatory opens and the Star Party begins at 2:00 pm. We will begin with solar viewing and other daytime objects.
2:00 pm: Nadia Abuisnaineh, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: Dragonfly: Planetary Mission to Titan
Summary: You may know Titan as Saturn’s largest moon—but did you know it might also resemble what Earth looked like in its early days? NASA’s upcoming Dragonfly mission will send a rotorcraft to explore Titan’s surface, flying from site to site over the course of two years. Join us to learn more about this fascinating mission and get the latest updates on its progress!
Bio: Nadia Abuisnaineh was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. For as long as she can remember, she always had a deep fascination with the universe. She was one of those kids in school that knew what she wanted to study in college at a very young age, and that never changed, even as she got older. Her love and enthusiasm for math and science allowed her to pursue a Bachelors of Science Degree in Astrophysics from the University of Minnesota. After graduating in 2011, Nadia dedicated her time and talents to multiple community organizations serving the youth and those in need, another promoting Islamic awareness and education, and an online Islamic University. In 2019, Nadia became a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador, where she joined a nationwide team of volunteers that speak to their communities about space and space exploration missions. Soon after, she worked at the Bell Museum, and helped launch their annual Statewide Star Party.
She currently resides in Fridley, Minnesota, with her husband and three kids. She spends most of her time teaching her son and daughters how to navigate the world around them. She enjoys watching documentaries, walking around the state’s many lakes, swimming, and stargazing.
3:00: Laura Hammerbeck, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: When Stars Explode
Summary: Stellar explosions are among the most energetic events in the universe. They create new elements, enrich interstellar space, and even lead to the formation of new stars and planets, but how do you tell them apart? Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck on an exploration of nova, supernova and kilonova.
We’ll talk about why exploding stars are in the news.
T. Coronae Borealis, predicted to erupt soon, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. It’s a recurrent nova, and people around the world will be able to see it themselves.
Why does this happen, and when? Where should you look? Explosions in space…what could be more fun?
Bio: Laura is a motivational and inspirational speaker. With over 20 years of teaching and communication experience, she presents solid information in an enthusiastic yet relaxed manner, with an ounce of humor on the side. Laura brings focus and energy to her audience. An amateur astronomer and space junkie, she is eager to share space exploration and study, as well as all its intriguing ideas with people of all ages.
4:00: John Fisher, MAS member
Title: What Are Stars Made Of?
Summary: What messages are hidden in the light of celestial objects? Join John in the classroom for a hands-on demonstration to learn about the different elements that make up stars and see how astronomers measure temperature. Featuring video contributions of Cecilia Payne. Afterwards, stick around to look at hydrogen and helium spectra.
Bio: John has been a member of MAS for 8 years and is a keyholder at Eagle Lake Observatory. He has had a lifelong interest in physics and mathematics and currently is focused on astronomical spectroscopy and spectropolarimetry. John enjoys doing outreach events and is always looking for new ways to engage newcomers to this great hobby.
5:30 pm: Dinner break.
7:00 pm: Sarah Devine, UMN Extension Educator – Anoka County 4-H
Title: “Messie” Science – Galaxies, Nebulae, Star Clusters
Summary: The process of science doesn’t always result in what you’d expect. However, the “byproducts” of an investigation can be an accomplishment on their own. In his search for comets, Charles Messier catalogued 110 other deep space objects so that he knew they weren’t what he was looking for. Today we know his work as the Messier Catalog, a collection of fun deep space objects to hunt for and find from your own backyard. We’ll investigate a few of these objects and make personalized plans for your own Messier Marathon.
Bio: Sarah Devine has loved astronomy since before she can remember. Her childhood dream job was to be an astronaut. Her love for all things space has allowed her to teach astronomy for over 10 years in multiple settings. From museums and planetariums to community college to 4-H, talking about astronomy and learning with others of all ages is her passion. She’s traveled to major international observatories and has fond memories of traveling to the 2017 total solar eclipse here in the U.S.A.
8:00 pm: Door prize drawing. Must be present to win!
Event Background
​Astronomy Day is a grass roots movement designed to share the joy of astronomy with the general population – “Bringing Astronomy to the People.” On Astronomy Day, thousands of people who have never looked through a telescope will have an opportunity to see first-hand what has so many amateur and professional astronomers all excited.
Astronomy Day was born in California in 1973. Doug Berger, then president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, decided that rather than try to entice people to travel long distances to visit observatory open houses, they would set up telescopes closer to where the people were – busy locations – urban locations like street corners, shopping malls, parks, etc.
His strategy paid off. Not only did Astronomy Day go over with a bang, not only did the public find out about the astronomy club, they found out about future observatory open houses. Since the public got a chance to look through a portable telescope, they were hooked. They wanted to see what went on at the bigger telescopes, so they turned out in droves at the next observatory open house.
For additional information, visit the Astronomical League’s website at https://www.astroleague.org/astronomyday/facts

Public star parties are open to all.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
onaninfo@mnastro.org

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ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Tanya Melnik
2025-05-17 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 pm Speaker: Tanya Melnik
Title: Aurora Chasing
Summary: Northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are a natural light display many of us had a chance to enjoy in the past couple of years or even earlier. It is one of the most recognized space weather phenomena created from the interaction of solar wind with Earth’s magnetic field.
Our Sun is currently very active. We are just past solar maximum, but there are still plenty of opportunities to see aurora in the next couple of years.
Learn the science of aurora and aurora forecasts. Become a citizen scientist and contribute to the scientific understanding of aurora. And, of course, find out how to improve your chance of seeing aurora.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

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2025 ELO Public Star Party
2025-05-31 19:00 - 22:00, 2025-08-30 19:00 - 22:00, 2025-09-13 19:00 - 22:00, 2025-10-25 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: TBD
Topic: TBD
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

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ELO Event date (required):

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June MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker: Bob King
2025-06-05 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Bob King (Minnesota Astronomical Society)
Topic: How to Get Ordinary People Interested in Astronomy?
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88382458625?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 883 8245 8625
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Tim Carlson
2025-06-14 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Tim Carlson
Topic: Parker Solar Probe
Summary: Parker Solar Probe has become humanity’s first visit to a star, traveling through the Sun’s atmosphere, closer to the surface than any spacecraft before it, facing brutal heat and radiation conditions to provide humanity with the closest-ever observations of a star.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

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ELO Event date (required):

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2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Feature Speaker: Cristina Andrade
2025-07-03 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Cristina Andrade (Minnesota Institute of Astrophysics)
Topic: Kilonova Catcher (KNC)
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83773419534?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 837 7341 9534
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

2025 ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker Laura Hammerbeck - CANCELLED
2025-07-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
DUE TO UNHEALTHY POOR AIR QUALITY, THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Laura Hammerbeck
Topic: Should Pluto be a planet?
Poor Pluto! Demoted! Why was Pluto denied its planet status? What defines a planet anyway? NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck takes a look at this hotly debated topic. We’ll talk about makes a planet, and more about the other objects we see in the universe. Come decide for yourself … are you Team Pluto?
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Laura Hammerbeck
2025-07-26 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Laura Hammerbeck
Topic: Should Pluto be a planet?
Poor Pluto! Demoted! Why was Pluto denied its planet status? What defines a planet anyway? NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck takes a look at this hotly debated topic. We’ll talk about makes a planet, and more about the other objects we see in the universe. Come decide for yourself … are you Team Pluto?
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

18th Annual Camping with the Stars
2025-08-01 19:00 - 2025-08-03 14:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Annual Camping With the Stars at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize and raffle prize drawings will be held Saturday evening and include telescopes, binoculars, MAS merchandise, astronomy books and more. Weather permitting, the evening will conclude with a tour of the night sky and of course stargazing.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Registration & Check-in
Registration

Registration: https://mncarverctyweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?module=PST
Group Camp Setting in Ball field below the observatory (not including event admission pass)+ MAS EVENT Registration $10/night
Daily Admissions (not camping) to MAS EVENT $12/person/day

Check-in
The campground host will be checking in any CWTS campers that arrive on Friday & Saturday. Any walk-ins will be sent to the observatory.
All CWTS guests, after checking in and getting their campsite, will pick up their CWTS packet at the observatory. Among other things, the packet will provide information on the weekend activities, event schedule, and door prize tickets for Saturday night drawing.
Walk-in fee are collected at the observatory. Included with the fee are the door prize tickets (and wrist bands). Anyone can also buy a raffle ticket, whether registered or not.
Schedule of Events (subject to change)
Friday August 1
The observatory opens and the Star Party begins at 7:00 pm. We will begin with solar viewing and other daytime objects. The star party continues past midnight.
7:00 pm: Laura Hammerbeck, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Topic: It’s our solar system, let’s explore!
Summary: Take a journey through our cosmic neighborhood. From the center of the sun to Pluto, and beyond, our solar system is filled with marvels! Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck on a space adventure through our corner of this amazing universe.
Bio: Laura is a motivational and inspirational speaker. With over 20 years of teaching and communication experience, she presents solid information in an enthusiastic yet relaxed manner, with an ounce of humor on the side. Laura brings focus and energy to her audience. An amateur astronomer and space junkie, she is eager to share space exploration and study, as well as all its intriguing ideas with people of all ages.
8:00 pm: Tim Carlson, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Topic: Mars Ingenuity Helicopter
Summary: Join MAS member and NASA Solar System Ambassador Tim Carlson as he explores the first machine to fly on an alien world. We will look at Ingenuity from inception to its final flight on Mars.
Bio: Tim has been a space nerd all his life. For his science fair project in 4th grade he built a model of the Apollo 11 Command and Lunar modules and explained how they docked together for their trip to the Moon. He loves all things that have to do with space from Mercury to Artemis and everything in between. He looks forward to sharing his love of space exploration with everyone he can.
Saturday August 2
The observatory opens at 1:00 pm. for daytime viewing of the sun, stars & planets (if clear).
2:00 pm: Dave Falkner, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Topic: Astronomy Fact or Fiction?
Summary: Today we are bombarded with amazing science and science fiction, so much so that it’s sometimes difficult to separate what’s real, and what is theory or just plain fantasy, In his presentation Dave will talk about 3 misconceptions you may have seen about the universe, space travel and alien life.
Bio: Dave has been a life-long amateur astronomer. He first became interested in astronomy as a pre-teen when his father took him to a show at the Holcolm Planetarium in Indianapolis. He became hooked and has had an interest in astronomy ever since. After retiring from the US Navy, Dave settled in Minnesota and became an active member of the Minnesota Astronomical Society (MAS). He has served as its President from 2011 – 2014 and again from 2019 – 2020 and is the current Secretary. As a member of the MAS, Dave enjoyed performing astronomical outreach, often speaking to groups at libraries, nature centers and schools.
Dave is a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador where he educates the public about space, space exploration and NASA missions. Along with his outreach activities, Dave has taught beginning Astronomy classes at a local community college and has published three books; two editions of “Mythology of the Night Sky” and the book “The Stories of Astronomers and Their Stars.”
3:30 pm: Colin Kilbane, STEAM Educator
Title: Rocket building and launching
Summary: Let’s get ready to rocket! Come take a crash course on model rocketry, pun fully intended! Learn how Newton’s laws of motion make space travel possible and help us explore our solar system. In this class you will build a simple 3D printed model rocket and learn how to safely launch it.
Please note: There is a $2.00 suggested donation per rocket or a $5 “pay it forward” suggested donation to help cover material costs. Thank you!
Bio: Colin Kilbane has been sharing his STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fun for almost 30 years now. He started making slime and setting off fire alarms with chemistry outreach at Kansas State and the University of Minnesota. A chemist and biochemist by training, he ended up moving on to share his passion for STEM and making things go boom as the Senior Mad Scientist and Operations Director for Mad Science of MN for more than a decade before he made his move to the high school classroom. He has taught chemistry, physical science, robotics, makerspace and physics for the last ten years and does STEM on the side. This year, he started up Gopher STEAM. Gopher STEAM can add some STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, ART! and math) to any event for any age, preschool on up. Gopher STEAM offers fantastically fun interactive shows, activity tables, birthday parties, scouting programs, classes and now summer camps. Check out more at Gophersteam.com
5:30 pm: Dinner break.
7:00 pm: John Fisher, MAS Member
Title: What Are Stars Made Of?
Summary: What messages are hidden in the light of celestial objects? Join John in the classroom for a hands-on demonstration to learn about the different elements that make up stars and see how astronomers measure temperature. Featuring video contributions of Cecilia Payne. Afterwards, stick around to look at hydrogen and helium spectra.
Bio: John has been a member of MAS for 8 years and is a keyholder at Eagle Lake Observatory. He has had a lifelong interest in physics and mathematics and currently is focused on astronomical spectroscopy and spectropolarimetry. John enjoys doing outreach events and is always looking for new ways to engage newcomers to this great hobby.
8:00 pm: Door prize drawing. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!
9:30 pm: Brad Nasset, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador – Laser light constellation tour
Bio: Brad Nasset is a Solar System Ambassador with the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He enjoys sharing his knowledge about the night sky and has presented astronomy and space exploration topics to thousands of people in public and private groups, at National Park System night sky events, and high school and university astronomy classes. He is also an observatory operator with the Minnesota Astronomical Society.
Sunday August 3
The observatory opens at 8:00 am. for solar viewing and other daytime objects (if clear).
8:00am – Breakfast in the HotSpot Classroom
Come join us for breakfast, which includes eggs, toast, donuts, fruit, juice, coffee, and more. The day will include solar viewing from the observatory.
2:00pm Activities conclude

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - 6th Annual Members Astrophotography
2025-08-07 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Topics: 6th Annual Members Astrophotography
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87348667558?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 873 4866 7558
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

ELO Public Star Party- Featured Speaker: Brad Nasset
2025-08-16 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Brad Nasset – NASA Solar System Ambassador
Topic: Understanding the Night Sky
Summary: Where are we in our Milky Way Galaxy, and in the universe? How to find the constellations, and why are many of them only visible at certain times of the year? What can we see with a telescope? Well, now you will know!
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 Northern Nights Star Fest
2025-08-20 12:00 - 2025-08-25 13:00 | Long Lake Conservation Center, 28952 438th Lane, Palisade, 56469, United States
Northern Nights Star Fest will be held at long Lake Conservation Center August 20 – 25 2025.
The LLCC Committee is working hard to put together a great event.
Register now: https://longlakecc.campbrainregistration.com/
Additional details of NNSF can be found on the Northern Nights Star Fest event page.
Join us for the premier MAS Regional Star Party at our great dark-sky site.

Door Prize Event Sponsors – THANK YOU!

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Astro-PhysicsASTRO-PHYSICS has been developing telescopes and accessories for the advanced amateur since 1975. We now offer an extensive line of precision telescopes, mountings and accessories, all with outstanding performance for a variety of observing needs. We have concentrated on those things that make observing a joy: sharp high-resolution optics, rugged vibration-free mountings and easy-to-use, effective accessories.

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StarizonaStarizona is a leading astronomy brand known for its innovative astrophotography accessories, including the popular HyperStar system. Based in Tucson, Arizona, Starizona designs high-quality reducers, field flatteners, and imaging tools that help astronomers capture sharp, wide-field images with ease.

SharpCapSharpCap is an easy-to-use and powerful astronomy camera capture tool. It supports a wide range of dedicated astronomy cameras as well as webcams and USB frame grabbers.

Preliminary NNSF Agenda (Subject to change at any time)

Wednesday August 20, 2025 (Sunset 8:04pm, astro twilight ends 9:47 pm)

3:00 pm
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

Evening

OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Thursday August 21, 20245 (Sunset 8:02pm, astro twilight ends 9:45 pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture– North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – TBD

3:00 pm
LLCC Keyholder Training (Part 1) – Video – North Star Lodge

4:00 pm
LLCC Keyholder Training (Part 2) – Hands-on – Observing Field

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – Dave Falkner

Evening

OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Friday August 22, 2025 (Sunset 8:01pm, astro twilight ends 9:43 pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

6:45 pm
Welcome Message

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – Kevin Nasal

Evening

OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Saturday August 23, 2025 (Sunset 7:59pm, astro twilight ends 9:41pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture– North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – Ahmed Reda

3:00 pm
Naturalist-led Adventure Hike Meet at North Star Lodge entrance

5:30 pm
Turn in your completed observing lists and/or images

4:30-5:30 pm
LLCC Canteen Open – Dining Hall

5:15 pm
NNSF Group Photo – Observing Field in front of observatory

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

6:30 pm
Observing/Imaging Awards – Door Prize Giveaway

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge -Bob King

Evening

OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Sunday August 24, 2025 (Sunset 7:57pm, astro twilight ends 9:39pm)

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

All Day
Remove your items from the Swap-Meet tables

Afternoon
Open

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

Evening

OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Monday August 25, 2024

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

12:00 pm
Pack up – move out – discard trash – sweep rooms – leave no trace

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Feature Speaker: Dale Dellutri
2025-09-04 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Dale Dellutri (Skokie Valley Astronomers)
Topic: Could We Understand an Alien Message?
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84772447944?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 847 7244 7944
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

Statewide Public Star Party at ELO
2025-09-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Featured Speaker 7:30 pm: Laura Hammerbeck
Topic: The Northern Lights – dancing lights in the sky that have captivated people for millennia. What are they? When can I see them? Where? Treat yourself to a dazzling light show as you learn about the science of this spectacular phenomenon, and see why it has enchanted us throughout the ages.
The MAS is partnering with the Bell Museum for the 2025 Statewide Star Party. All across the state folks will gather to stargaze! This years theme, Aurora Voyage: Chasing the Northern Lights, is an invitation to celebrate the beauty of Minnesota’s northern skies and learn more about this beloved phenomena.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

Fall Astronomy Day
2025-09-27 14:00 - 23:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Saturday September 27, 2025
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Astronomical League’s Astronomy Day activities at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize drawing will be held Saturday evening and include MAS merchandise, astronomy books and telescopes. The evening will continue with viewing through our array of telescopes observing some of the winter and early spring objects coming into view including the Orion Nebula, Crab nebula, the Sombrero Galaxy, the Whirlpool Galaxy, the Beehive Cluster, the Black Eye Galaxy and Hercules cluster among many others.
Schedule of Events
The observatory opens and the Star Party begins at 1:30 pm. We will begin with solar viewing and other daytime objects.
2:30 Speaker: Tim Carlson, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: The Cassini-Huygens Mission to Saturn.
Summary: A cooperative NASA, European Space Agency (ESA), and Italian Space Agency (ASI) project that explored Saturn and its system for nearly two decades from 2004 until 2017. We’ll talk about the mission from the Huygens probe landing on Titan to the Cassini probes fiery entry into Saturn’s atmosphere.
Bio: Tim has been a space nerd all his life. For his science fair project in 4th grade he built a model of the Apollo 11 Command and Lunar modules and explained how they docked together for their trip to the Moon. He loves all things that have to do with space from Mercury to Artemis and everything in between. He looks forward to sharing his love of space exploration with everyone he can.
4:00 ***Special presentation***
For the first time, the MAS is hosting an AMA panel this Fall Astronomy Day!
Bring your questions to our panel of astronomy enthusiasts. From what’s up in the night sky to how our solar system began, now is the chance to ask all your cosmic questions about astronomy, space, planets and more!
This event is for all ages, from the casual stargazer to the most dedicated enthusiast.
Our panelists:
Tim Carlson– Tim loves all things that have to do with space. His current interest is the missions, from the Voyagers, to the Parker Solar Probe and everything in between.
Laura Hammerbeck– An amateur astronomer and space junkie, Laura has spent the summer asking “Should Pluto be a Planet?”, exploring the solar system and watching for exploding stars.
Trena Johnson– A Past President of the MAS, Trena has completed observation lists from the Astronomical League, and continues to expand her knowledge of our Solar System.
Ron Schmit– Ron is a long-time astronomy educator. His students get news and lessons from the frontier of space, and he is a valuable resource for exploring our celestial neighborhood.
Ron will also serve as moderator during this talk.
All of our panelists are NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassadors!
5:30 DINNER BREAK
7:00 Speaker: John Fisher, MAS Member
Title: What Are Stars Made Of?
Summary: What messages are hidden in the light of celestial objects? Join John in the classroom for a hands-on demonstration to learn about the different elements that make up stars and see how astronomers measure temperature. Featuring video contributions of Cecilia Payne. Afterwards, stick around to look at hydrogen and helium spectra.
Bio: John has been a member of MAS for 8 years and is a keyholder at Eagle Lake Observatory. He has had a lifelong interest in physics and mathematics and currently is focused on astronomical spectroscopy and spectropolarimetry. John enjoys doing outreach events and is always looking for new ways to engage newcomers to this great hobby.
8:00 Door Prize Drawing ***MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN***
Event Background
​Astronomy Day is a grass roots movement designed to share the joy of astronomy with the general population – “Bringing Astronomy to the People.” On Astronomy Day, thousands of people who have never looked through a telescope will have an opportunity to see first-hand what has so many amateur and professional astronomers all excited.
Astronomy Day was born in California in 1973. Doug Berger, then president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, decided that rather than try to entice people to travel long distances to visit observatory open houses, they would set up telescopes closer to where the people were – busy locations – urban locations like street corners, shopping malls, parks, etc.
His strategy paid off. Not only did Astronomy Day go over with a bang, not only did the public find out about the astronomy club, they found out about future observatory open houses. Since the public got a chance to look through a portable telescope, they were hooked. They wanted to see what went on at the bigger telescopes, so they turned out in droves at the next observatory open house.
For additional information, visit the Astronomical League’s website at https://www.astroleague.org/astronomyday/facts

Public star parties are open to all.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker: Peter Birren
2025-10-02 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Peter Birren
Topic: Objects in the Heavens
Peter Birren is retired from his graphic and marketing design business of 45 years. He moved a few years ago from under the monster light dome of Chicago to the Bortle 4 skies of Kentucky. He is a self-taught cosmic voyeur – assembling and creating his book, “Objects in the Heavens”, became his classroom. After years of hang gliding and camping out in the country, the night sky became a real draw, so the curiosity grew and developed into the book. OITH eventually came into being to answer the question of “What is it, where is it and can I actually see it?”
Peter’s talk involves his journey into astronomy and he will share with us a couple of discoveries he’s made. Questions will be allowed at any time during and after the presentation.
COVID-19 PROTOCOL: Masks are welcome, but not required at the Monthly Meeting. Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87110910626?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 871 1091 0626
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

MAS New Member Orientation Meeting
2025-10-04 10:30 - 12:00 | Ramsey County Library – Maplewood, 3025 Southlawn Drive, Maplewood, 55109, United States
​Rebecca Messer will be holding an in-person MAS Member Orientation Meeting on Saturday mornings a few times per year.
Any new (or old) members, or those considering joining the MAS are invited to meet us from 10:30am to 12:00pm on Saturday, Oct 4, 2025
RCL – Maplewood Public Library.3025 Southlawn DriveMaplewood, MN 55109
In this approximately 1.5 hour meeting we will introduce the leadership of the MAS, discuss public and member star parties, provide a look at all our observing sites, discuss all the means of communications within the Society, and provide an overall description of all the benefits of membership in the MAS.
We look forward to seeing you!
Rebecca Messer
MAS Membership Coordinator

2025 BSIG Observing Session
2025-10-10 18:00 - 23:00 | Metcalf Field, 795 Indian Trail S, Afton, MN, 55001, United States
Note: Event has been rescheduled to Friday evening!
Are you new to MAS? Do you have a new telescope, but need some help setting it up? Join us for the Beginner’s Special Interest Group’s Observing Session. This is a free event, and open to all who want to learn!

We hope you can make it!
MAS Metcalf Observing Field
There is no charge to attend a beginner event, and you do not need to be an MAS member to attend — everyone is welcome!! The purpose is to help beginners learn the night sky, and how to set up and use a telescope. Volunteers from the MAS will be on hand to answer your questions.
If you have a telescope, feel free to bring it. If you need help with learning how to set up and use it, we are happy to help! Sign up below to be notified about any schedule changes.

If you haven’t been to Metcalf Field, it can be a little difficult to locate the entrance. So please arrive in daylight.
The BSIG Coordinator will make the final Go/No Go call on the evening of Thursday before the event, based on the weather forecast. If Friday is more favorable, then the session may be moved to Friday.
Please monitor the MAS BSIG Forum for latest updates.
If you’d like to volunteer to help out at this and future Beginner group events, please let me know.

Fill in this form to sign-up for BSIG events only.

Note: Public Star Parties at ELO do not require sign-up.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

BSIG Event date (required):

Number people attending:

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 ELO Public Star Party - Observe The Moon!
2025-10-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Topic: International Observe the Moon Night 2025
IOMN; The annual celebration bringing together moon enthusiasts and inquiring people worldwide in appreciation of our moon.

The moon has delighted and captivated us forever! Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck on an exploration of our nighttime companion. Learn about the Moon’s beginnings, current lunar missions, and a whole lot of things to see when moongazing in your backyard. Come experience the lunar delights for yourself!

During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker: Michael Busch (SETI Institute) - ZOOM ONLY
2025-11-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Online
NOTICE: The Aŋpétu Téča Education Center is unavailable for the MAS monthly meeting in November 2025, so we will host an online meeting with ZOOM only.
MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Michael Busch, PhD (SETI Institue)
Topic: Small Objects In The Solar System
The solar system contains several populations of small objects, from near-Earth objects to the Oort cloud. I will review these objects and describe how they differ from the planets and their satellites. I will focus on near-Earth objects in particular, because they are accessible targets for spacecraft missions as well as sometimes representing a hazard to Earth.
Meeting Location:Online with ZOOM only!

The online meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held only online using Zoom using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88133515860?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 881 3351 5860
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

2025 ELO Public Star Party
2025-11-08 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Laura Hammerbeck, NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Topic: When Stars Explode
Stellar explosions are among the most energetic events in the universe. They create new elements, enrich interstellar space, and even lead to the formation of new stars and planets, but how do you tell them apart? Join Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck on an exploration of nova, supernova and kilonova.
Exploding stars are in the news! T Coronae Borealis, predicted to erupt soon, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. A recurrent nova that people around the world will be able to see!Why does this happen, and where should you look for it?
Explosions in space…it’s gonna be a blast!
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

Planets in the Park - Urban Family Star Party
2025-11-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Pershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
“Planets in the Park”
* FAMILY FRIENDLY, ALL AGES *>>>On Facebook: Planets in the Park<<<
Friday, Nov 28, 2025, 7:30 PM to 9:00 PMPershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street
SW Minneapolis
All Ages, Clear or Cloudy
(Cancelled if snowing, stormy, high wind)Telescopes: Saturn, Moon, all evening.Jupiter and four moons, after 8:30 PM.Deep Sky: Pleiades, Double Cluster,Andromeda Galaxy, more…
Beginners’ Astronomy Lesson: Laser Sky Tour,Star Wheels, Moon Phases, True Birth Sign.Sky Legends from Around the World.

2025 MAS Monthly Meeting & Board Election & SWAP MEET - Featured Speaker: Todd Burlet
2025-12-04 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
The MAS will hold a business meeting to hold our Board Election. The positions of Vice President, Treasurer, and Board Member-at-Large are being voted upon. In-person member attendees will receive paper ballots, and online attendees will register with the Zoom link below and vote online. 10% of membership, or minimum of 50 people, are required to achieve a quorum.
Details of the candidates can be found at the MAS Forum: https://forum.mnastro.org/viewtopic.php?t=15855
Featured Speaker: Todd Burlet (Starry Skies North)
Topic: Preserving The Dark Sky
We will also host a SWAP MEET on-site. Tables will be set up around the room, and people can buy and sell their astronomy gear, books, or accessories. Bring your stuff to sell and bring your money to buy! We will keep the usual business discussion short to let the speaker go early, so there should be plenty of time to SWAP.
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center (formerly the Fairview Community Center)1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom. Because this is an official business meeting and election, registration is required using the following URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/LXHTQvzMSTOtluqSmn6Gdw
After registration, you will receive a Zoom link via email.
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Will receive meeting information via email

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG December 2025 Presentation - Featuring David Falkner
2025-12-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: David Falkner – MAS Member and NASA AmbassadorTopic: Titan and the Dragonfly Mission
Synopsis: The presentation will focus on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, and NASA’s ambitious Dragonfly mission to explore it. The presentation will begin with Titan’s discovery, and what we learned through telescopic observations. I will then talk about the discoveries by Pioneer 11, Voyager 1 and the Cassini/Huygens mission. I will talk briefly about Ingenuity, the first successful extraterrestrial aircraft before talking about the Dragonfly spacecraft and its astrobiology mission.

Biography: Dave has been a life-long amateur astronomer. He first became interested in astronomy as a pre-teen when his father took him to a show at the Holcolmb Planetarium in Indianapolis. He became hooked and has had an interest in astronomy ever since. After retiring from the US Navy, Dave settled in Minnesota and became an active member of the Minnesota Astronomical Society (MAS). He has served as its President from 2011 – 2014, 2019 – 2020, and Secretary from 2023 – 2024. As a member of the MAS, Dave enjoyed performing astronomical outreach often speaking to groups at libraries, nature centers and schools. Dave is a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador where he educates the public about space, space exploration and NASA missions. Along with his outreach activities Dave has taught beginning Astronomy classes at a local community college and has published three books.

This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following Zoom link.
Zoom URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85959083361?pwd=[REDACTED] ID: 859 5908 3361Passcode: [REDACTED]

We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2026 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featuring Ahmed Reda
2026-01-08 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Ahmed Reda – MAS Programs Coordinator
Topic: Sufi’s Book of Fixed Stars – Kitāb Suwar al-Kawākib
Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82524883314?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 825 2488 3314
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG January 2026 Presentation - Featuring Claire Weaverling
2026-01-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Claire WeaverlingTopic: Sky Sampler – Tasty Targets for New Observers
Synopsis: Seen the Ring Nebula and Hercules Cluster a few too many times? This session will sample about 20 beginner-friendly observing targets that are often overlooked or overshadowed. Every object on the list earned a “wow,” “amazing,” or “beautiful” in my observing notes when I was starting out.

Biography: Claire Weaverling is a member and current Secretary of the MAS. She has spent over a decade visually observing with Dobsonians, happily (and occasionally stubbornly) star-hopping her way to faint fuzzies.

This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following Zoom link.
Zoom URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89888620896?pwd=[REDACTED] ID: 898 8862 0896Passcode: [REDACTED]

We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

February MAS Monthly Meeting - Budget Vote - Featured Speaker: Bernie Stinger
2026-02-05 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
This will be a MAS Business meeting and we will be reviewing and voting on the 2026 Budget. A 10% Quorum of total members (or a minimum 50 members) is required.
Registration will be required in advance if participating on Zoom. After registering with your name and email address, you will be emailed the Zoom link to join the meeting. Non MAS members will also need to register to participate in the meeting, but will not be allowed to vote.
The proposed budget will be made available to MAS members in advance on Slack: Channel #2026-mas-budget-preview
Members can comment and ask questions. Members who are not part of the Slack community can join by sending an email to slack@mnastro.org. Copies of the budget can also be requested via email to president@mnastro.org.
Featured Speaker: Bernie Stinger
Topic: What ever happened to that older LX200 16” Scope that was out at ELO?
Synopsis: Back in 2023 the older LX200 16″ went for a journey cross country to it’s new home. What ever happened to it? Did it just end up in another garage?A description of the Tucson Astronomy Club follows with photos of our club sites.

Bio: Born, raised, & educated in Minneapolis. I spent 4 years in the Army Security Agency during the Vietnam War and later returned to Minneapolis to work for an electronics firm in Bloomington for 40 years doing field service, customer service, system design, and sales management. Upon retirement moved to Tucson Arizona a few years back and found TAAA. Currently the Star Party Manager for the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association.

Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113
Zoom registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wAExYbd8Qwmro4PL2PH9Ug

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
The registration link is using Zoom using the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wAExYbd8Qwmro4PL2PH9Ug
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

BSIG February 2026 Presentation - Featuring Suresh Sreenivasan
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
The MAS invites everyone to the virtual Beginner’s Group Presentation using ZOOM.
Featured Speaker: Suresh SreenivasanTopic: All About Telescopes

Synopsis:
Have you been considering getting your first telescope? Or maybe you’re thinking about upgrading to something bigger & better? If so, this is the presentation for you! We’ll review the various types of telescopes most visual observers use, including refractors, reflectors and catadioptrics. We’ll go the optical benefits of each type, and review other factors, such as portability and cost, to help you decide what you really want in your next telescope. We’ll also cover the various types of mounts and touch upon the various telescopic accessories that can make your observing more enjoyable.
Biography:
I have been an amateur astronomer for 41 years and completed the Messier and Herschel 1 lists while I was in college in Illinois. After 35 years as a visual observer, I started migrating over to imaging. But I still enjoy observing, particularly with my 12″ and 16″ Dobsonian telescopes. As a visual observer, I love viewing solar system objects, such as the Sun, planets and comets, as well as deep-sky objects such as galaxies, star clusters and nebulae. I also dabble (poorly) in stellar spectroscopy. I have been the MAS BSIG coordinator since 2016 and really enjoy helping beginners of all ages make their initial forays into astronomy.

This meeting will be held online using Zoom. If you would like to join us you will need use the following Zoom link.
Zoom URL: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81882145483?pwd=[REDACTED] ID: 818 8214 5483Passcode: [REDACTED]

We will open up this link about 10 minutes before the event starts.

You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dial-in Phone Number
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:
1. Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.2. Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.3. You can request to ask a question in the chat area in Zoom and wait to be prompted by the moderator.
We hope you can join us.Clear skies!
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

2026 MAS March Meeting
2026-03-05 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: David Falkner
Topic: Stonehenge – History & Mystery
Special Member Presentation: Greg Hallberg
Topic: Planetary Seismology

Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86386335984?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 863 8633 5984
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

ELO Public Star Party - CANCELLED
2026-03-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Due to potential for treacherous road conditions on Saturday evening the public star party scheduled for Eagle Lake Observatory at Baylor Regional Park is cancelled. Our next public event will take place on March 28th.

7:00 PM Featured Speaker: TIM CARLSON
Topic: The NASA Dragonfly Mission
Selected as NASA’s fourth New Frontiers mission, the Dragonfly rotorcraft lander will explore Titan autonomously. Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Tim Carlson exploring the Dragonfly mission. This presentation will detail why Titan is such a compelling world to study, what objectives the Dragonfly mission has and what opportunities and challenges will be involved in operating Dragonfly.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

Cedar Creek Public Star Party
2026-03-21 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-04-18 19:30 - 22:00, 2026-05-23 19:30 - 22:00, 2026-08-15 19:30 - 22:00, 2026-08-22 19:30 - 22:00, 2026-09-19 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-10-17 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-11-14 19:00 - 22:00 | Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, 2660 Fawn Lake Drive NE55005-9718, Bethel, MN, 55005-9718, United States

BSIG March 2026 Presentation - Featuring Ahmed Reda - CANCELLED
2026-03-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Online
Unfortunately we have to cancel this presentation – but we should add it to the next fall/winter BSIG schedule – stay tuned.
Suresh SreenivasanMAS Beginner’s Coordinator

ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Tim Carlson
2026-03-28 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: TIM CARLSON
Topic: The NASA Dragonfly Mission
Selected as NASA’s fourth New Frontiers mission, the Dragonfly rotorcraft lander will explore Titan autonomously. Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Tim Carlson exploring the Dragonfly mission. This presentation will detail why Titan is such a compelling world to study, what objectives the Dragonfly mission has and what opportunities and challenges will be involved in operating Dragonfly.
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2026 MAS Monthly Meeting - Featured Speaker: Chuck Allen
2026-04-02 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Chuck Allen – Astronomical League President
Topic: The Home Galaxy
Starting with the sun’s plunge through the Local Fluff, this program examines the Milky Way Galaxy from the inside out. Seen first are neighborhood stars and exoplanets, the Pleaides Moving Group responsible for our Local Bubble, the Radcliffe Wave, the Orion Spur to which many popular nebulae and clusters belong, recent supernovae, and finally the core of the galaxy, SgrA*, and its S-star neighbors. After a review of galactic structure, we look at the galaxy’s Fermi Bubbles, globular clusters, stellar streams, and integrated flux nebulae, and, just beyond, the Milky Way’s 71 companion galaxies and Local Group neighbors, one of which shares with us an intimate past and a future fate.
Bio: Chuck Allen is president of the Astronomical League. He holds gold level Master Observer status with 45 observing programs completed, founded the National Young Astronomer Award in 1993, and received the League’s G. R. Wright Award for service in 1998. He has given more than 570 lectures and programs on astronomy and makes regular appearances in Explore Scientific global star party and League Live broadcasts. He also co-chaired ALCon ’21 Virtual. Chuck is past president of the Louisville Astronomical Society and program director of the Evansville Astronomical Society. He served as a judge and lead judge for the Intel (now Regeneron) International Science and Engineering Fair (1995-2002) and currently serves as a best-in-fair high school judge for two regional science fairs.
Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86397339731?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 863 9733 9731
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

2026 New Member Orientation Meeting
2026-04-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Robert Trail Library (Rosemount), 14395 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount, MN, 55068, United States
​Rebecca Messer will be holding an in-person MAS Member Orientation Meeting on Saturday mornings a few times per year.
Any new (or old) members, or those considering joining the MAS are invited to meet us from 10:00am to 12:00pm on Saturday, April 11, 2026
Robert Trail Library14395 S Robert TrailRosemount, MM 55068
In this approximately 1.5 hour meeting we will introduce the leadership of the MAS, discuss public and member star parties, provide a look at all our observing sites, discuss all the means of communications within the Society, and provide an overall description of all the benefits of membership in the MAS.
We look forward to seeing you!
Rebecca Messer
MAS Membership Coordinator

ELO Public Star Party
2026-04-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:00 PM Featured Speaker: Laura Hammerbeck
Topic: Novae, supernovae, kilonovae, oh my!
Stellar explosions are among the most energetic events in the universe. They create new elements, enrich interstellar space, and even lead to the formation of new stars and planets, but how do you tell them apart? Join NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador Laura Hammerbeck on an exploration of the explosive lives of stars. Exploding stars are in the news! T. Coronae Borealis, predicted to erupt soon, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. It’s a recurrent nova, and people around the world will be able to see it themselves.Why does this happen, and when? Where should you look?
Explosions in space…what could be more fun?

During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

BSIG Observing Session
2026-04-24 19:30 - 23:00 | Metcalf Field, 795 Indian Trail S, Afton, MN, 55001, United States
NOTICE! Due to the weather forecasts predicting clear skies on Friday and clouds on Saturday, I have moved the BSIG to Friday night at 7:30pm.

Are you new to MAS? Do you have a new telescope, but need some help setting it up? Join us for the Beginner’s Special Interest Group’s Observing Session. This is a free event, and open to all who want to learn!

We hope you can make it!
MAS Metcalf Observing Field
There is no charge to attend a beginner event, and you do not need to be an MAS member to attend — everyone is welcome!! The purpose is to help beginners learn the night sky, and how to set up and use a telescope. Volunteers from the MAS will be on hand to answer your questions.
If you have a telescope, feel free to bring it. If you need help with learning how to set up and use it, we are happy to help! Sign up below to be notified about any schedule changes.

If you haven’t been to Metcalf Field, it can be a little difficult to locate the entrance. So please arrive in daylight.
The BSIG Coordinator will make the final Go/No Go call on the evening of Thursday before the event, based on the weather forecast. If Friday is more favorable, then the session may be moved to Friday.
Please monitor the MAS BSIG Forum for latest updates.
If you’d like to volunteer to help out at this and future Beginner group events, please let me know.

Fill in this form to sign-up for BSIG events only.

Note: Public Star Parties at ELO do not require sign-up.

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Planets in the Park - Urban Family Star Party
2026-04-24 20:00 - 21:30 | Pershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
“Planets in the Park”
* FAMILY FRIENDLY, ALL AGES *>>>On Facebook: Planets in the Park<<<
Friday, April 24, 2026, 8:00 PM to 9:30 PMPershing Field Park, 3523 W 48th Street
SW Minneapolis
All Ages, Clear or Cloudy
AT NIGHT, Pershing Park is Quiet, Friendly, Comfortable, Conversational, Accessible, Dark Enough for the Moon and Planets, Not Too Dark for safe walking, , Kids Riding Bikes, Neighbors Walking Dogs, Easy to walk at Night.

Telescopes, Jupiter, Moon. Also, Leo, Gemini, Auriga (the Charioteer). Diversity in the Sky. Beginners’ Astronomy Lesson, much more!

Spring Astronomy Day
2026-04-25 14:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Saturday April 25, 2026
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Astronomical League’s Astronomy Day activities at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize drawing will be held Saturday evening and include MAS merchandise, astronomy books and telescopes. The evening will continue with viewing through our array of telescopes observing some of the winter and early spring objects coming into view including the Orion Nebula, Crab nebula, the Sombrero Galaxy, the Whirlpool Galaxy, the Beehive Cluster, the Black Eye Galaxy and Hercules cluster among many others.
Schedule of Events
The observatory opens and the Star Party begins at 2:00 pm. We will begin with solar viewing and other daytime objects.
2:00 PM: Tim Carlson, MAS Member and NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: Walking With The Last Men On The Moon
Summary: Revisiting the Apollo 17 landing site with the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. With Artemis returning to the moon, we’ll take a look at the last mission that went to the moon.
2:45 PM: Laura Hammerbeck, MAS Member and NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: Four Years of Webb
Summary: The James Webb Space Telescope has been operating since 2022, thrilling us with stunning images and breakthrough astronomy. Learn how JWST’s groundbreaking technologies have shaped our understanding of the universe, and take a look back through time to the earliest light we have detected (so far). See which galaxy holds the title for “most distant”, a record that has been broken many times already by Webb’s observations, and is sure to be broken again as Webb continues to explore our universe.
3:30 PM: Colin Kilbane, MAS Member and STEAM Educator
Title: Rocket building and launching
Summary: Let’s blast off! Gopher STEAM is bringing rocket science to Spring Astronomy Day. We will learn about model rocketry by building an easy model rocket and then (weather permitting) learn how to safely launch it. Kids will have the opportunity to create their own X-Plane glider while we wait for the glue to dry on our rockets.
Please note: There is a $2.00 suggested donation per rocket or a $5 “pay it forward” suggested donation to help cover material costs. Thank you!
5:00 PM: DINNER BREAK
7:00 PM: Dave Falkner, MAS Member and NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Title: Ignition – NASA’s Artemis Program Reimagined
Summary: With the success of Artemis II, NASA’s program for returning humans to the Moon is off and running. But the program has seen some significant changes since the new NASA Administrator, Jared Isaacman, took the helm in December 2025. Dave will give a brief history on the NASA Manned Lunar Space program, and then talk about the Artemis program, its changes, successes, and what’s next toward a renewed US presence on the Moon and beyond.
8:00 PM: Door Prize Drawing. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!
9:45 PM: Laser light constellation tour by Dave Falkner.
Event Background
​Astronomy Day is a grass roots movement designed to share the joy of astronomy with the general population – “Bringing Astronomy to the People.” On Astronomy Day, thousands of people who have never looked through a telescope will have an opportunity to see first-hand what has so many amateur and professional astronomers all excited.
Astronomy Day was born in California in 1973. Doug Berger, then president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, decided that rather than try to entice people to travel long distances to visit observatory open houses, they would set up telescopes closer to where the people were – busy locations – urban locations like street corners, shopping malls, parks, etc.His strategy paid off. Not only did Astronomy Day go over with a bang, not only did the public find out about the astronomy club, they found out about future observatory open houses. Since the public got a chance to look through a portable telescope, they were hooked. They wanted to see what went on at the bigger telescopes, so they turned out in droves at the next observatory open house.
For additional information, visit the Astronomical League’s website at https://www.astroleague.org/astronomyday/facts

Public star parties are open to all.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

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MAS Monthly Meeting - May 2026
2026-05-07 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: Valts Treibergs
Topic: History of Saint Paul Central High School Observatory – 1889-1929
Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center1910 County Road B WestRoseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83054199385?pwd=[REDACTED]
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID: 830 5419 9385
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Number: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.Clear skies!

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ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Ron Schmit
2026-05-09 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Ron Schmit, MAS Member and NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador
Topic: Amazin’ Stargazin’: A Beginner’s Guide to Exploring the Night Sky
Summary: Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what you were seeing—or how to find it again? Come join us in the Hot Spot Classroom for a beginner-friendly presentation designed to help anyone explore the cosmos. You’ll learn how to navigate the night sky, identify constellations, track the Moon and planets, and understand seasonal changes in the sky. Learn about objects like star clusters , double stars, nebula, and galaxies. We’ll also cover practical tools and techniques that make stargazing accessible from your own backyard. Learn how to use star charts and mobile apps like Stellarium. We’ll introduce you to sites in the sky like meteor showers, planetary alignments, eclipses, and other celestial events you can observe. Let’s explore the amazing night sky!
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

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ELO Event date (required):

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2026 BSIG Observing Session
2026-05-09 19:30 - 23:00, 2026-06-06 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-07-18 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-08-22 19:30 - 23:00, 2026-09-19 18:30 - 23:00, 2026-10-17 17:30 - 23:00 | Metcalf Field, 795 Indian Trail S, Afton, MN, 55001, United States

ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker Tanya Melnik
2026-05-23 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
7:30 PM Featured Speaker: Tanya Melnik
Upper Midwest Aurora Chasers Admin (UMAC) & Aurorasaurus Ambassador for the Citizen Science project dedicated to studying aurora.
Topic: Northern Lights
Summary: Northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are a natural light display that many of us have had a chance to enjoy over the recent years. It is an important part of tradition and identity for many northern cultures. It is one of the most recognized space weather phenomena resulting from the interaction between the solar wind and Earth’s magnetic field.

Our Sun is currently in the declining phase of the solar cycle. Bigger events with northern lights visible across the entire state of Minnesota will likely not be as common in the coming years, but that does not mean that we have to travel far to catch the dancing lights. And the chance for a major aurora show is still there for the next couple of years

Come to the Star Party to learn about northern lights and how to catch them!
During a Public Star Party, we use our array of telescope platforms to show you the wonders of the night sky. Our primary goal during a star party is to view stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, planets and maybe a comet or two, all observable through our telescopes. There may also be a presentation or Q&A session at a public event. Public star parties typically run from 7:00-10:00 pm, although we tend to stay later during the summer months as the summer sunset is later. Note that the Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. The main gate to the park entrance automatically closes at 10:00 pm, so please plan to arrive before then.

Public Star Parties are typically all-weather events. Even if it’s cloudy someone will open the observatory for a tour, give a presentation or answer any astronomy questions you may have. If this is your first star party, or it’s been a while since you’ve been to one, please review the Public Star Party Guidelines.
Annually, we also host all day events for the Spring and Fall Astronomy Day and the annual Camping with the Stars event. Additionally, we may schedule special events throughout the year for a unique astronomical happenings such as an eclipses, planetary oppositions, conjunctions or comets.
*Other than our Camping with the Stars (CWTS) event, registration is not required to attend an event. CWTS is also the only event there is a fee to attend, as it is coordinated through the Baylor Park offices. Call the Baylor Park Office at 952-466-5255 for CWTS registration and camping information.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Eagle Lake Observatory onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):

2026 MAS Monthly Meeting
2026-06-04 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-02 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-08-06 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-09-03 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-10-01 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-11-05 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-12-03 19:00 - 21:00 | MAS Hybrid Monthly Meeting at AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center, 1910 County Road B West, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
The MAS will be hosting a hybrid in-person & ZOOM Monthly Meeting. MAS meetings are free and open to the public. JOIN US!
Featured Speaker: TBD
Topic: TBD
Reminder if you are feeling ill or have been around someone who has been ill, PLEASE STAY HOME!!
Meeting Location:
AŊPÉTU TÉČA Education Center
1910 County Road B West
Roseville, Minnesota 55113

The hybrid meetings will be recorded on ZOOM, and post-edited for publication after a few days on the MAS YouTube Channel.
This meeting will be held online using Zoom using the following URL:
You can probably hear best with a headset but your computer’s speaker and microphone will also work.
Dialing-in with a phone:

Meeting ID:
Passcode:
[REDACTED] +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

In order to ensure the most success we are asking everyone to follow a couple of rules:

Don’t turn on your camera – it sucks up bandwidth and we really don’t need to see you.
Keep your microphone muted until you are prompted during a question and answer session during the presentation. This will cut down background noise substantially.
You can request to ask a question in the chat area of the Meet and wait to be prompted by the moderator.

We hope you can join us.
Clear skies!

Fill out this form to be added to out ‘Weekly Happenings’ email newsletter!

Your name:

Your email:

ELO Public Star Party
2026-06-06 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-07-04 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-08-01 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-08-22 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-09-05 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-10-03 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-10-17 19:00 - 22:00, 2026-11-07 19:00 - 22:00 and 1 more date | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States

ELO Public Star Party - Featured Speaker: Tanya Melnik
2026-07-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States

2026 Camping With The Stars
2026-08-14 16:00 - 2026-08-16 14:00 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Annual Camping With the Stars at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize and raffle prize drawings will be held Saturday evening and include telescopes, binoculars, MAS merchandise, astronomy books and more. Weather permitting, the evening will conclude with a tour of the night sky and of course stargazing.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
Registration & Check-in
Registration

Registration at Carver County Parks site: https://web2.myvscloud.com/wbwsc/mncarverctywt.wsc/search.html?module=PST
Group Camp Setting in Ball field below the observatory (not including event admission pass)+ MAS EVENT Registration $30
Daily Admissions (not camping) to MAS EVENT $5/person/day

Check-in
The campground host will be checking in any CWTS campers that arrive on Friday & Saturday. Any walk-ins will be sent to the observatory.
All CWTS guests, after checking in and getting their campsite, will pick up their CWTS packet at the observatory. Among other things, the packet will provide information on the weekend activities, event schedule, and door prize tickets for Saturday night drawing.
Walk-in fee are collected at the observatory. Included with the fee are the door prize tickets (and wrist bands). Anyone can also buy a raffle ticket, whether registered or not.
Schedule of Events (subject to change)
Friday August 14
Schedule TBD
Saturday August 15
Schedule TBD
Sunday August 16
Schedule TBD
2:00pm Activities conclude

2026 Northern Nights Star Fest
2026-09-09 12:00 - 2026-09-14 13:00 | Long Lake Conservation Center, 28952 438th Lane, Palisade, 56469, United States
Northern Nights Star Fest will be held at long Lake Conservation Center September 9-14, 2026.
The LLCC Committee is working hard to put together a great event.
Register now: https://longlakecc.campbrainregistration.com/
Additional details of NNSF can be found on the Northern Nights Star Fest event page.
Join us for the premier MAS Regional Star Party at our great dark-sky site.

Door Prize Event Sponsors – THANK YOU!

Preliminary NNSF Agenda (Subject to change at any time)

Wednesday September 9, 2026 (Sunset xx:xx pm, astro twilight ends xx:xx pm)

3:00 pm
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

Evening
OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Thursday September 10, 2026 (Sunset xx:xx pm, astro twilight ends xx:xx pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture– North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – TBD

3:00 pm
LLCC Keyholder Training (Part 1) – Video – North Star Lodge

4:00 pm
LLCC Keyholder Training (Part 2) – Hands-on – Observing Field

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge –TBD

Evening
OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Friday September 11, 2026 (Sunset xx:xx pm, astro twilight ends xx:xx pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

6:45 pm
Welcome Message

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

Evening
OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Saturday September 12 2026 (Sunset xx:xx pm, astro twilight ends xx:xx pm)

All Day
Self-Check-in at North Star Lodge – move-in to bunk rooms

All Day
Open Swap Meet in North Star Lodge – tables around the room

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

1:00 pm
Lecture– North Star Lodge – TBD

2:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

3:00 pm
Naturalist-led Adventure Hike Meet at North Star Lodge entrance

5:30 pm
Turn in your completed observing lists

4:30-5:30 pm
LLCC Canteen Open – Dining Hall

5:15 pm
NNSF Group Photo – Observing Field in front of observatory

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

6:30 pm
Observing/Imaging Awards – Door Prize Giveaway

7:00 pm
Lecture – North Star Lodge – TBD

Evening
OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use
(If cloudy – movie or bonfire)

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Sunday September 13, 2026 (Sunset xx:xx pm, astro twilight ends xx:xx pm)

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

All Day
Remove your items from the Swap-Meet tables

Afternoon
Open

5:30 pm
Dinner in Dining Hall

Evening
OBSERVE – NO WHITE LIGHT AFTER TWILIGHT
The 30”and 25” scopes will be available for use

12:00 pm
Midnight snack – Dining Hall

Monday September 14, 2026

11:30 am
Brunch in Dining Hall

12:00 pm
Pack up – move out – discard trash – sweep rooms – leave no trace

2026 Fall Astronomy Day
2026-09-19 14:00 - 23:30 | Eagle Lake Observatory, 10775 County Road 33, Norwood Young America, MN, 55397, United States
Saturday September 19, 2026
The Minnesota Astronomical Society would like to invite you to attend the Astronomical League’s Astronomy Day activities at the Eagle Lake Observatory in Baylor Regional Park. Speakers are scheduled throughout the day and will give talks on astronomy and what there is to see. Door prize drawing will be held Saturday evening and include MAS merchandise, astronomy books and telescopes. The evening will continue with viewing through our array of telescopes observing some of the winter and early spring objects coming into view including the Orion Nebula, Crab nebula, the Sombrero Galaxy, the Whirlpool Galaxy, the Beehive Cluster, the Black Eye Galaxy and Hercules cluster among many others.
Schedule of Events
The observatory opens and the Star Party begins at 2:00 pm. We will begin with solar viewing and other daytime objects.
Schedule TBD
Event Background
​Astronomy Day is a grass roots movement designed to share the joy of astronomy with the general population – “Bringing Astronomy to the People.” On Astronomy Day, thousands of people who have never looked through a telescope will have an opportunity to see first-hand what has so many amateur and professional astronomers all excited.
Astronomy Day was born in California in 1973. Doug Berger, then president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, decided that rather than try to entice people to travel long distances to visit observatory open houses, they would set up telescopes closer to where the people were – busy locations – urban locations like street corners, shopping malls, parks, etc.
His strategy paid off. Not only did Astronomy Day go over with a bang, not only did the public find out about the astronomy club, they found out about future observatory open houses. Since the public got a chance to look through a portable telescope, they were hooked. They wanted to see what went on at the bigger telescopes, so they turned out in droves at the next observatory open house.
For additional information, visit the Astronomical League’s website at https://www.astroleague.org/astronomyday/facts

Public star parties are open to all.
Additional information as well as directions can be found on the Eagle Lake Observatory web page.
onaninfo@mnastro.org

Fill in this form to make an inquiry about our Public Star Parties at ELO.

Your name (required):

Your email (required):

Your phone:

ELO Event date (required):

Let us know if you have any questions or how we could help you! (required):
