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 5/2/08 )
Next Meeting May 2nd
Our next meeting will be Friday, April 4th 7:30pm at the Quality Liquid Feeds building in Dodgeville.
Tentative agenda subject to change:
Remaining 2008 meetings will be May 30, June 27, July 25, August 29, September 26, October 24, November 21 (last Friday before new moon). December party TBD.
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!
Empire Ranch Observatory Open House 
Cancelled for May - Too much rain in the last 24 hours
will make the field a mess!
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 June 6th 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.
Meeting Summaries
If you weren't able to make a past meeting and want to know what went on, the summaries of previous meetings are available here.
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