Madison Astronomical Society

  • Titan Shadow Transit Season

    Starry Night Pro simulation of titan shadow transit
    A simulation created using Starry Night Pro of Titan’s shadow transiting Saturn’s disk.

    Twice during every 29.5 year orbital period of Saturn around the sun, Earth and Saturn briefly occupy the same ecliptic plane. During this brief period two rare planetary phenomena can be observed: Saturn’s rings will appear edge on, and Titan’s shadow may be seen transiting the disk of the planet.

    (more…)

  • Club Celebrates 90th!

    MAS 90th anniversary gala
    Gala goers awaiting the go-ahead to start eating.

    On April 5 2025, MAS celebrated its 90th birthday with a grand party we called the Anniversary Gala. The gala was held at the magnificent Usona Institute at Promega Corporation in Fitchburg.

    (more…)

  • MAS Field Trip: Remote Dark Sky Camping in Nebraska

    5 MAS members at campsite in Nebraska
    Bonnie Tiedt, Bob Hamers, John Wunderlin, John Rummel, and Rick Wayne relaxing by the reservoir.

    Over Memorial Day week, 2025, several MAS members made an informal excursion to Nebraska’s Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area for some camping under radically dark skies.

    (more…)