Each year, amateur astronomers from across the United States gather for one of the biggest astronomy conventions in the country: ALCON, the annual conference of the Astronomical League. In 2026, the event heads to the Cincinnati area for four days of astronomy talks, workshops, tours, social events, and community-building—and everyone is invited.… Continue reading.
This article is based on the “Star Party Preparation and Etiquette” post on Cloudy Nights by DAS Member and Trustee, Joe Gafford.
What’s a Star Party?A star party is a gathering of astronomy enthusiasts who come together to observe the night sky, share knowledge, and enjoy celestial sights through telescopes and binoculars.… Continue reading.
The Denver Astronomical Society is now accepting applications for the 2026 Van Nattan-Hansen-Anderson Scholarship (VNHA). Established in 1973, the VNHA Scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and undergraduate college students pursuing studies in astronomy, astrophysics, physical sciences, mathematics, and related fields.… Continue reading.
Each May, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower puts on a show in the early morning sky. These meteors get their name because they appear to radiate from the constellation Aquarius, near the star Eta Aquarii. The Eta Aquariids are known for their fast, bright meteors and are especially exciting because they are connected to one of the most famous comets in history—Halley’s Comet.… Continue reading.
Every April, the night sky lights up with a dazzling display of shooting stars during the Lyrid meteor shower. The Lyrids get their name because they seem to radiate from the constellation Lyra, which contains the bright star Vega. The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, with observations dating back to at least 687 BCE by Chinese astronomers.… Continue reading.
On April 1, 2026—yes, really, April Fool’s Day—NASA is scheduled to launch astronauts toward the Moon for the first time in 54 years.
The last time humans left low Earth orbit was during Apollo 17 in 1972. Since then, we’ve built space stations, launched telescopes, and sent robots across the solar system—but we haven’t sent people back to deep space.… Continue reading.
Charles Messier was a French astronomer who lived from 1730 to 1817. Working in Paris during the late 1700s, Messier was passionate about discovering comets. In an era when comet discoveries brought great scientific prestige, he spent countless nights scanning the skies with a 100 mm refracting telescope.… Continue reading.
Members of the Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) were proud to participate in the 63rd annual Denver Metro Regional Science & Engineering Fair (DMRSEF) on February 20, 2026, held on the Auraria Campus in downtown Denver.
The Denver Metro Regional Science & Engineering Fair is one of Colorado’s largest and longest-running STEM competitions.… Continue reading.
The upcoming total eclipse of the full Worm Moon on March 3, 2026, presents a remarkable opportunity for Denver skywatchers to observe this celestial event. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering the timing, phases, scientific background, and observing tips.
What Causes Lunar Eclipses and What’s a Blood Moon?… Continue reading.
The Denver Astronomical Society wouldn’t be the strong, vibrant organization it is without its members. Some of you are on the front lines—hosting star parties, leading outreach events, or mentoring new observers. Others work quietly behind the scenes, keeping committees, programs, and operations running smoothly.… Continue reading.