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, we have no dues and our only requirement is the ability to look up and say "Wow!" 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, visit our Google Group page and click on the join button.

For more information, contact John Wunderlin.

Latest News (updated 9/3/10 ) - NEW- Club Calendar

Observatory open house at John Wunderlin's home, September 3rd, 2010 8:30pm to 11:00pm. Email for directions.

Check this website for weather cancellation in case of clouds.

Update: 9/3- 10:30am: The weather is looking hopeful for tonight so it's still on unless conditions change.

Next Meeting Sept 10th, 2010 - NOTE DATE CHANGE!

Our next meeting will be be Friday, Sept 10 at 7:30pm at the Quality Liquid Feeds in Dodgeville.

Tentative agenda subject to change:

• Meet & Greet - 10 minutes
• Current astronomy news- please email suggestions to John W
• Astronomy Equipment discussion/show & tell - anyone is welcome to bring their equipment and discuss.
• Observing after the meeting around 9:00 at Governor Dodge State Park (if clear)
• Video TBD if cloudy

2010 Meetings will be: Jan 15, Feb 12, Mar 19, Apr 9, May 21, Jun 11, Jul 9, Aug 6, Sep 10, Oct 8, Nov 5 (last Friday before new moon).

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!

Wisconsin Astronomy - website for planning the International Year of Astronomy for Wisconsin

Ed Ting's Guide to buying a telescope