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MAS Events
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Friday, November 13, 2026, 7 pm, Memorial High School
Astrochronology: Using Earth’s Astronomical Motions as a Geological Timekeeper and Planetary Decoder
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Friday, December 11, 2026, 7 pm, Memorial High School
At the Edge of Time
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Friday, January 8, 2027, 7 pm, Memorial High School
Book Talk: Chasing the Stars
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Astrochronology: Using Earth’s Astronomical Motions as a Geological Timekeeper and Planetary Decoder
Friday, November 13, 2026, 7 pm, Memorial High School
Dr. Stephen R. Meyers
Vilas Distinguished Professor of Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
The long history of our planet provides a rich tapestry of boundary conditions and past ‘experiments’, which can be used to understand how the Earth System works and can inform decisions about our future. But how do we decode that history from a complex geological record?
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Capitol Skies Newsletter
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The Capitol Skies newsletter is the continuation of a tradition that goes back to the club’s origins in 1935. MAS is happy to extend this tradition today. If you would like to be a contributor, contact editor Jack Fitzmier, at madisonastro.info@gmail.com.
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2026 Nobel Prize in Physics Awarded to UW Professor Francis Halzen
Dr. Francis Halzen, UW Physics professor and Nobel laureate. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics to UW professor Francis Halzen.
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Lights Out Wisconsin!
Lights Out Wisconsin is a coalition of Wisconsin conservation groups and dark sky organizations working together to reduce the impacts of light pollution.
Nearly 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live because of light pollution. Whole generations are growing up without ever seeing our own galaxy, and without dark skies, meteor showers become invisible as well.
By taking simple steps at home, you can help restore night skies across Wisconsin so everyone can enjoy the wonders above.
💡 Useful – Light only when and where it’s needed.
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⬇️ Targeted – Aim fully shielded lights downward.
✨ Low Level – Use the lowest brightness needed.
⏱️ Controlled – Use timers or motion sensors.
🟠 Warm-Colored – Choose warm lights (2200K or lower).
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History of the Madison Astronomical Society
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September, 1950 MAS meeting at the Washburn Observatory. The Madison Astronomical Society has continuously operated as a club for over 90 years. But, like many organizations, we have paid only passing attention to documenting our own history.
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MAS Member Photos
