Did you know that when you become a member of the Denver Astronomical Society (DAS), you’re also automatically enrolled in the Astronomical League (AL) at no extra cost? This national organization opens up a whole new world of opportunity for amateur astronomers. Through the AL, DAS members gain access to an incredible collection of observing programs designed to guide your journey through the night sky—whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been stargazing for years.

These programs are more than checklists—they’re structured, goal-based adventures that help you learn how to observe, document, and appreciate celestial objects with increasing skill and confidence. You can earn certificates and collectible pins along the way, similar to the badges Scouts earn for achievements. Think of it as a science-based scavenger hunt that rewards your curiosity. With the AL’s support, your DAS membership becomes more than just a club—it becomes a roadmap for deepening your astronomical knowledge and having fun while doing it.

The observing programs are designed for all levels, from beginners just getting started to advanced astronomers with powerful telescopes and astrophotography gear. Whether you’re exploring your backyard with binoculars or photographing galaxies with a CCD camera, there’s something here for you.

Let’s explore a sampling of the many programs offered by the AL by skill level.

Beginner Programs

Perfect for those just starting out, these programs are designed to be completed using the naked eye or binoculars. They’re a great way to build confidence and learn your way around the night sky.

• Lunar Observing Program: Requires 100 recorded lunar observations, including phases, maria, and craters. Observations are logged in a written or digital format, with sketches encouraged.
• Asteroid Observing Program: Requires at least 25 asteroid observations. Entries must include position, time, and sketch or image; log sheet submission is required.
• Observer Program: Complete 25 observations from a variety of categories (e.g., constellations, planets, stars). A logbook with descriptions or sketches is used.
• Planetary Transit Observing Program: Requires detailed documentation (including timing and method) of a planetary transit event. Reports, sketches, and/or images must be submitted.
• Sketching Observing Program: Submit at least 10 original sketches of astronomical objects. Sketches should include date, time, and instrument used.
• Solar System Observing Program: Requires at least 75 observations from a solar system object list. Observations are documented in a logbook or spreadsheet.
• Solar Neighborhood Observing Program: Requires observing and documenting 100 nearby stars. Recordings must include magnitude, location, and method of identification.
• Dark Sky Advocate Program: Involves five specific outreach and dark-sky awareness actions. Documentation of activities, with photos and reports, is required.
• Outreach Award: Requires at least five hours of public outreach for the basic level. Record events, dates, locations, and types of interaction in a log.

Intermediate Programs

If you have a telescope and some observing experience, these programs will take your stargazing to the next level. Many include catalog-based targets and require detailed logs.

• Messier Observing Program: Requires observations of all 110 Messier objects. Each object must be logged with descriptions, dates, and sketches or photos.
• Caldwell Observing Program: Observe at least 70 of the 109 Caldwell objects. Observations are logged with details, locations, and optional sketches.
• Open Cluster Observing Program: Requires observation of 100 open clusters. A logbook entry should include object name, date, time, location, and comments.
• Planetary Nebula Observing Program: Observe and record 60 planetary nebulae. Each entry includes object details, appearance, and optional sketch or image.
• Double Star Observing Program: Observe and document 100 double stars. Logs must note separation, position angle, and color differences.
• Nova Observing Program: Submit observations of 5 novae. Reports must include date, magnitude estimate, and finder chart or sketch.
• Urban Observing Program: Requires observation of 100 objects visible from light-polluted skies. Log entries should include visibility notes and sketches or images.
• Galileo’s TOES (Telescopes Observing the Early Skies): Complete 11 classic observations made by Galileo. Submit sketches or images and short summaries for each.

Advanced Programs

These programs are designed for experienced observers. Many require a larger telescope, astrophotography skills, or specialized equipment such as spectroscopes or occultation timers.

• Herschel 400 Program: Requires observing 400 deep-sky objects. Log entries must describe appearance, position, and include sketches or notes.
• Jupiter Observing Program: Requires 15 detailed observations of Jupiter and its features. Observations must include dates, times, and drawings or photos.
• Mars Observing Program: Requires 25 drawings or images of Mars showing changing surface features. Observations must include time, date, and seeing conditions.
• Local Galaxy Group and Neighborhood Programs: Observe at least 50 galaxies in our local group. Document positions, magnitudes, and observing conditions.
• Master Imager Program: Submit a portfolio of astrophotography images meeting specific technical and artistic criteria. Digital logs and image metadata are required.
• Master Observer Program: Earn five different observing program certifications. Submit documentation for each program.
• Multiple Star Observing Program: Observe and record 100 multiple star systems. Logs must include sketches or notes describing star groupings.
• Occultation Observing Program: Requires timing and documenting five occultations. Submit reports including timing, method, and diagrams.
• Spectroscopy Observing Program: Capture and analyze 15 spectra of different stars. Submit processed spectral data, calibration info, and analysis.

How to Get Started

Ready to dive in? Getting started with an Astronomical League observing program is easier than you might think. First, choose a program that matches your interests and your available equipment. Each program has its own rules and observing requirements, which are available on the AL website—make sure to download and review the handbook or guide for that program.

Next, gather the tools you’ll need: a sky chart or astronomy app, a red flashlight, a logbook or spreadsheet, and your choice of observing instrument—whether that’s your eyes, binoculars, or a telescope. Most programs require you to record your observations with the date, time, observing conditions, and notes on what you saw. Some also encourage sketches or photographs.

Once you’ve completed the required number of observations, you’ll submit your log to the program coordinator (usually via email). They’ll review your work and, if all looks good, you’ll receive your certificate and pin to proudly display.

If you’re not sure where to begin or need help with the process, the DAS Astronomical League Coordinator is happy to assist. We want to see every member find joy and success in these programs.

Keep Looking Up

No matter your interest or experience level, there’s a path for you in the Astronomical League’s observing programs. They’re a wonderful way to explore the night sky, deepen your understanding of astronomy, and celebrate your accomplishments with official recognition.

This list is just a starting point. The Astronomical League offers many more observing programs covering a wide range of topics and interests. To explore all the available options, visit the full list of programs on the Astronomical League website.

If you have questions or would like help getting started, you can contact the DAS Astronomical League Coordinator at alcor@denverastro.org. We’re here to help you find your way to the stars.

Clear skies and happy stargazing!