Frequently Asked Questions

Where does MAS meet?

We meet at UW Space Place, located in the Villager Mall (right behind the Goodman Library), two blocks north of the Beltline Highway at 2300 S. Park St., Madison. Space Place is located downstairs on the lower level of the Atrium. Elevators are on the left side as you enter the lobby. Space Place has a classroom setting for our meetings as well as a museum that highlights the UW’s role in space science and astronomy.

When does MAS meet?

Our regularly scheduled meetings are on the second Friday of every month at 7:00 PM. In addition, we schedule occasional star parties, outreach events, and special presentations that are open to the public.

What happens at MAS meetings?

Most meetings start with a newcomer orientation at 6:45, a social time from 7-7:15, announcements and welcome visitors at 7:15, and the main presentation at 7:30.

What are the presentations like?

Our presentations are of two main types: talks by our own members about the stuff we do (observing, photography, gear, etc.) and presentations by astronomers and other professionals (mostly from the UW Madison) about their research.

Are the meetings recorded?

Yes. Most of our meetings are streamed live to our YouTube Channel and archived there for later viewing.

Do I need any special knowledge to be a member?

Not at all. Our members are men, women, and young people of all ages, from all walks of life, with education levels from “barely made it through high school algebra” to advanced degrees. All you need is a curiosity about the universe and a desire to learn.

Are there any other MAS events to look out for?

In addition to the monthly meetings, MAS holds an annual picnic, usually in the fall. Prior to COVID we also held an annual banquet, usually in February or March (we’re hoping to resurrect that tradition in 2026). The picnic is always held at YRS, our dark sky site in Green County. The banquet is generally held at a local restaurant and usually includes an after-dinner talk by an invited guest. In addition to all this, MAS hosts a variety of observing events every year, both at our dark sky site as well as public events in parks, or larger events like the annual Moon Over Monona Terrace star party. Watch club announcements for upcoming events or drop us a line at madisonastro.info@gmail.com.

What is MAS’s address?

MAS’s mailing address is PO Box 5585, Madison, WI 53705.