Welcome!

Iowa County Astronomers was formed in September, 2006. We are a group of like-minded astronomy enthusiasts that meet monthly to discuss current topics in space science and spend time observing together. All are welcome at our meetings and we don't even charge dues at this time. This website will keep you up to date on the latest astronomy happenings in Southwest Wisconsin and meeting times/places/agenda.

We have an email list that we use for announcements and discussion. If you would like to join, send an email to icastro@allprosoftware.net with the word 'subscribe' in the subject line.

For more information, contact David Oesper or John Wunderlin (webmaster).

Latest News (updated 9/5/08 )

Next Meeting September 5th -Note Change!

Our next meeting will be Friday, September 5th at 7:30pm at the Quality Liquid Feeds in Dodgeville.

Tentative agenda subject to change:

• Meet & Greet - 10 minutes
• Current events- please email suggestions to John W
• ALConExpo report - Dave & John H
• Cassini mission briefing video- Greg
• Iowa Star Party report - Dave, Greg & John W
• Public outreach - Ron's adoption group @ Twin lake pavillion Sat, Sept 27th.
• Yerkes observatory tour- Dave
• International Year of Astronomy planning- Dave, John W
• Astronomy Equipment discussion/show & tell - anyone is welcome to bring their equipment and discuss.
• DVD- History Channel's the Universe. Episode 1: Secrets of the Sun if cloudy
• Observing at 9:00 at Empire Ranch Observatory if clear

Remaining 2008 meetings will be September 26, October 24, November 21 (last Friday before new moon). December party TBD.

Empire Ranch Observatory Open House October 3rd Sept 5th CANCELLED- It's going to be cloudy tonight

Empire Ranch Observatory will have open house viewing on the 1st Friday of every month if clear. At least one astronomer will be present to show you the observatory, view the night sky through the telescopes and answer questions. The next open house will be on October 3rd at 9:00pm. Note that we will only have the open house on clear nights. Check this website the day of the open house- we'll post cancellation information here. If you're interested in coming, please send an email to John Wunderlin with the number of people that will be attending. Click here for directions.

Need Help with your Telescope?

We often hear from people who own a telescope and don't know how to use it. If you'd like to learn how to use a telescope, bring your telescope to any of our meetings- we've got lots of experienced people who would be glad to help!

MMSD Planetarium Shows

The MMSD Planetarium offers public shows on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6:30 and 7:45. Click Here for their website.

Quick links

Astronomy Picture of the Day- Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

The Sky This Week - Weekly astronomy column by David Oesper

UW-Space Place - Space Museum in Madison! Regular presentations and guests, but it's kind of hard to find!

Ed Ting's Guide to buying a telescope