Denver Astronomical Society News

International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition

Web Master — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 15:03:07 GMT

The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition is an educational astronomy competition open to students worldwide. In three rounds, students use their problem-solving skills and expand their knowledge through astrophysics problems. Since its launch in 2019, IAAC has reached over 40,000 students and involved 1,800 educators from more than 120 countries. This year's prizes include telescopes signed by the astronaut Frank De Winne and Nobel Prize laureates François Englert, Michel Mayor, Gerard 't Hooft and Didier Queloz.

The submission deadline for this year's Qualification Round is Sunday, 17 April 2026.
https://iaac.space/en/#iaac

Coming Soon: Scientific Special Interest Group

Web Master — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:33:36 GMT

There is growing interest within the Denver Astronomical Society for a special interest group focused on photometry, spectroscopy, and scientific measurements of astronomical objects.

Photometry uses physical measurements to quantify the luminosity and flux of stars and asteroids. Spectroscopy involves capturing and analyzing optical spectra to determine chemical composition, temperature, Doppler shift, and stellar class.

Astrometry is the measurement of the positions and motions of celestial bodies, such as stars and asteroids.

This special interest group will use some of the same astronomical tools as the ASIG, such as astronomical cameras and tracking mounts, but will focus more on scientific analysis of captured imagery.

Watch your email for further developments. Interested members can also join the newly-created #ssig-general and #das-ssig-announcements Slack channels to keep informed about the latest developments.

For information on joining our Slack server, visit https://members.denverastro.org/slack
(Note: You must be logged into the portal for the above link to work.)

Remembering DAS Member Sam Andrews

Web Master — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:01:28 GMT

Sam Andrews, a DAS member and Outreach Volunteer for many years, passed away on January 24, 2026. We knew Sam as a warm-hearted fellow who was passionate about sharing the night sky with others. In spite of his 6’ 8” frame, he was gentle and soft-spoken. Even little kids were at ease when they looked through his telescope, as they could sense his kind spirit.

A more subtle quality was an interest in doing things well—in the DAS, Sam often brought his 7-inch Maksutov telescope, so folks could see the planets clearly and comfortably. (Larger Maks like this can be demanding to operate, but they’re famous for their sharpness.) Rather than compromise on the quality of the view, he hauled out the over 100 pounds of optics, mount, and counterweights necessary to properly support the telescope, and many DAS members still remember looking through that Mak with Sam.

Astronomy wasn’t the only field that Sam was interested in. The same love of quality and precision lent itself to careers as a machinist and later as an engineer. Sam spent decades designing and building lasers professionally, including projects that included speed guns for police departments, laser tools for calculating the size and density of trees for the Forestry Department, and rangefinders for the Bushnell Corporation.

He had other hobbies as well, including skiing, motorcycles, bike riding, photography, knife sharpening, and shooting. Displayed in his home were awards and trophies for these pursuits, a quiet testament to the depth of his interest in all these fields.

Sam’s family will lay him to rest with his parents and sisters in Palmer, Nebraska… But some part of him will stay with us, always.

There will be an informal remembrance for Sam Andrews at IHOP (1595 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80222) for brunch/lunch at 1200 PM on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

Annual Election Online Voting is Now Underway !

Web Master — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 23:58:09 GMT

Annual Election Online Voting is Now Underway

Online voting opened at 6:00 a.m. MST on Monday, February 2nd, 2026. Each eligible voting member was sent an email with a unique link to the ballot.

If you haven't seen the email, please check your email in-box (and your spam folder). If you did not receive a ballot, please email elections@denverastro.orgmail

Thanks to those who have already voted. If you have not yet voted, now is the time to do so! Voting will only take 3 minutes of your time and really helps to shape our organization!

2026 Executive Board Elections

Web Master — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 18:46:14 GMT

It’s Almost Time for DAS’s 2026 Executive Board Election

Each year, members of the Denver Astronomical Society elect Officers and Trustees to serve on our Executive Board. The 2026 election officially begins at the January 12 General Membership Meeting, when nominations will open.

DAS is powered entirely by volunteers—and what a success that’s been. In just over a decade, we’ve grown from about 300 members to more than 1,200 today. We’re now the largest astronomy club in the Astronomical League and one of the largest in the United States. Every one of those accomplishments is thanks to you, our members.

Want to Get Involved? This Is Your Chance

Have you ever thought about taking a more active role in DAS leadership? We need you! Serving on the Executive Board is a meaningful way to help guide the future of one of the country’s leading astronomy clubs.

All adult DAS members in good standing are eligible to run.

Executive Board Overview

The Executive Board consists of 13 members, all serving one-year terms:

4 elected Officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer
9 Trustees:
- 8 elected Trustees
- 1 Past President (automatic seat)

How Nominations Work

Nominations open during the January General Membership Meeting
Members may nominate themselves or others
Nominations must be submitted by email to the Election Chairperson:
Toby Sheets — nominations@denverastro.org
(Please wait until nominations officially open before submitting.)

Voting & Election Results

Voting will take place electronically
Voting will open approximately one week before the February Annual Business Meeting
Members will receive:
- Voting instructions
- A link to candidate biographies
- Access to the online ballot

Election results will be announced after the main presentation at the February meeting.

Important Dates to Remember ️

January 12, 2026
Nominations open during the General Membership Meeting
February 9, 2026
Election results announced at the Annual Business Meeting
March 7, 2026
Newly elected Officers and Trustees are seated at the Spring Banquet

Plan to Attend

Please plan to attend the January General Membership Meeting on Monday, January 12, at The Secular Hub, either in person or virtually. This meeting officially kicks off the election process.

More details about the election will be shared with members via email soon.

Toby Sheets
2026 Election Chairperson
elections@denverastro.org

Doveed Levy Youth Service Award

Web Master — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:56:44 GMT

Doveed Levy Youth Service Award - deadline for submissions is Nov. 1

Attention Parents and Youth:

Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) presents an award on an annual basis to one or more DAS members age 19 or younger who demonstrate service to the public through outreach activities and/or service to the Society through whatever means are available for them to be of service.

The Doveed Levy Youth Service Award (DLYSA) was created in 2024 in honor of a modern-day comet hunter and astronomer, best known as one of three people who discovered the most famous comet of our time, Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9. Doveed (David) Levy became a Junior member of the Denver Astronomical Society in the 1960s, as a teenager, when he came to Denver for treatment of his asthma at National Jewish Hospital and Research Center. He is now the Society’s Poet Laureate, opening E-Board meetings and monthly General Membership Meetings with a poem. He has discovered over 20 comets so far, some on his own and others with Gene and Carolyn Shoemaker. He continues to observe from his home observatory on nearly every clear night.

Applicants for the DLYSA shall document their activities throughout the year, including the type of activity or service performed and the approximate number of hours spent. The application shall include a signature of recommendation from an adult member who witnessed a significant portion of the youth’s work and who feels that the youth has provided service in a meaningful manner.

Applications for the DLYSA opened on October 1st.The annual deadline for submitting DLYSA applications is quickly approaching: November 1st. The applications shall be reviewed by a panel of at least five DAS E-Board members or other respected club members who can objectively assess the merits of each application. The panel members shall use a ranked-order system to select their choices, and an E-Board member who is not on the panel shall tabulate and announce the winner(s) no later than November 1st of each year. In the case of a tie, there shall be two winners.

The winner(s) of the DLYSA will receive a framed certificate and a $250 check.

The winner(s) shall also be considered for nomination for the Astronomical League’s Horkheimer/Smith award.

The application for the Doveed Levy Youth Service Award is available here:
https://das-dlysa2025.paperform.co/

VNHA Scholarship Program Still Accepting Applications

Web Master — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 17:18:32 GMT

The VNHA Scholarship Program is still accepting applications
(see below).

Please share this information with graduating high school seniors or undergraduate college students majoring in astronomy, mathematics, and physical sciences.

Established in 1973, the Denver Astronomical Society’s Van Nattan-Hansen-Anderson Scholarship (VNHA) supports graduating high school and undergraduate college students majoring in astronomy and the physical sciences

Each year, scholarships may be awarded to students in good academic standing who have demonstrated intent and merit to pursue a career in the physical sciences or mathematics. VNHA gives priority to students of astronomy, astrophysics, and related fields.

To Apply

Applicants should complete the application process at THIS LINK starting April 1 each year. VNHA will only consider applicants whose applications we receive by June 15 each year. VNHA will typically give awards around August 1.

If you need help using the Paperform application website, please contact Josef Scarantino, Chair of the Scholarships Committee, at VNHA@denverastro.org.

The deadline to apply is June 15, 2025

For detailed information, see the VNHA Scholarship page on our web site:
https://www.denverastro.org/resources/scholarship/

DAS In-Reach Program Seeking Presenters

Web Master — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 00:59:44 GMT

The purpose of the In-Reach Program is for DAS Members to share their experience, and ongoing astronomy-related projects, with other DAS Members.

Do you have an ongoing astronomy interest, or project, that you would like to share with other DAS Members? We host these presentations on selected Saturday nights at Chamberlin Observatory.

Possible topics could include: Observing techniques, coming galaxy and nebula observing targets, astrophotography, astronomy software, equipment demonstrations, etc.

The sky is the limit!

If interested contact the In-Reach Coordinator at: InreachCoordinator@denverastro.org

NASA’s 2024 Summer Astrophoto Challenge

Web Master — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:32:19 GMT

Attention Astrophotographers!

Enter NASA’s 2024 Summer Astrophoto Challenge and create your image of the Cassiopeia A (Cas A) using James Webb Space Telescope data. You can capture your real-time telescope image using the MicroObservatory robotic telescope network or work with data files taken with multi-wavelength space-based missions from NASA, ESA, and CSA (Hubble, Webb, Chandra, Spitzer). Submissions end July 31, 2024.

We’d love to see a DAS member recognized for their talent!

Learn more: https://mo-www.cfa.harvard.edu/OWN/astrophoto/index.html

ALCON 2024 Tickets on Sale

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 23:17:57 GMT

ALCON 2024 tickets and room reservations are now open for purchase and booking!

Purchase ALCON Tickets HERE

Room reservations are now open for the special ALCON rate at the Overland Park Doubletree Inn. Book now at https://group.doubletree.com/hp0506

Highlights include:

Gottlieb Planetarium at Union Station in downtown Kansas City, Mo., will provide a private presentation in their facility.
Linda Hall Library, a world-famous science and technology research library, will feature guest speaker David Levy and a chance to visit the library’s rare book room, featuring such books as two of the few extant copies of Galileo’s Siderius Nuncius (1610).
Powell Observatory for a presentation by ASKC member and astronomy student Rachel Cionitti and an evening of stargazing with the 30-inch Ruisinger Telescope (weather permitting). The observatory visit will be preceded by a stop at the beautiful Overland Park Arboretum for a StarBQ dinner featuring a local Kansas City-style BBQ.
The Banquet features a local jazz band, and Brown University professor of physics and astronomy and jazz musician Stephon Alexander will discuss his latest book, The Jazz of Physics.

For an up-to-date list of the speaker lineup, please check here:
https://alcon2024.astroleague.org/speakers/

LOCATION

DoubleTree by Hilton Kansas City - Overland Park, 66210

The beautiful Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is the site of the Traditional Friday night Star-B-Que Zarda Hickory Pit Bar-B-Q, which has been serving its special offerings for almost 50 years in the Kansas City area. They are also strong community partners with many Kansas City area charities and non-profits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City, The America Royal, and The Bishop Sullivan Center, which is committed to helping people cope with financial hardships.

Volunteers Needed: Solar Eclipse Observing Event

Web Master — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 18:30:39 GMT

The Great American Eclipse of 2024 is just around the corner. To accommodate those who would like to see the eclipse but can’t or won’t be traveling to the path of totality, DAS is planning to hold a special partial solar eclipse observing event at DU’s historic Chamberlin Observatory on Monday, April 8, weather permitting. We need volunteers to set up and operate solar telescopes and binoculars on the park lawn for public observation, and at least one volunteer to help sell eclipse glasses (while supplies last).

What: Partial solar eclipse observing event

When: Monday, April 8, 2024, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. MT

Where: Chamberlin Observatory, 2930 E. Warren Ave., Denver

If you’re able to help with this event, plan on showing up between about 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to set up. We recommend that volunteers bring and wear sunscreen and a hat. The observatory will not be open for tours, but will be open for restroom access.

Please let Mark Christman (AprilEclipse@denveratro.org) know if you would like to be among the volunteers.

AprilEclipse@denverastro.org

GET YOUR ECLIPSE GLASSES!!!

Web Master — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 18:46:34 GMT

Denver Astronomical Society Eclipse Glasses Bundle

We have quite a few eclipse glasses left and really need your help* in moving through some of them.

The DAS Eclipse Bundle includes one pair of ISO12312-2-certified solar viewing glasses and a commemorative 2023/2024 Great North American Eclipse Tour sticker.

Our eclipse glasses are certified to meet all safety standards for direct solar viewing and are produced in the USA by American Paper Optics.

Glasses and the free commemorative sticker can be ordered through through our special Eclipse Glasses Store.

If you've got friends or family anywhere along the eclipse, especially within the path of totality, these would make a great gift!

*Each purchase helps us a great deal to continue our mission of educating the public about all things astronomy, maintaining the Chamberlin Observatory, the Kline-Dodge Dark Sky Site, and much more!

Banquet Registration Window Closes Thurs Feb 29

Web Master — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:39:59 GMT

Registration for our annual Spring Banquet is still open in the Member Portal, but time is running out!

Sign up now (see below); the deadline is Thursday, February 29th.

When: Sunday, March 10, 2024, 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Where: Embassy Suites DTC, 10250 E Costilla Ave, Centennial, CO 80112

***

This year's Spring Banquet features:

Social/Cocktail time - Cash bar at 5:30 p.m.
Awards & New Officer & Trustee Introductions at 6:20 p.m.
Banquet-style dinner (see below) - at 7:00 p.m.
Astronomy Presentation by Dr. Jordi Casanova - at 8:00 p.m.
More social time - until 10:00 p.m.

Banquet Style Dinner

Starter:

Salad - Spring Mix, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Carrots, Herbed Croutons served with Ranch and Balsamic Dressing

Entrees (choice of one):

* Chicken Cordon Bleu - Chicken Breast stuffed with Ham & Cheese topped with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

* Lemon Pepper Grilled Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Wild Rice Pilaf

* Pasta Primavera (Vegetarian) Linguini with Seasonal Vegetables, Tomatoes, and Lemon Thyme Cream Sauce

Dessert:
Cheesecake

Meal price:
$35 per person regardless of entree.

Note: Please email info@denverastro.org if you need your meal to be gluten-free.

Here's a link to the registration page:
https://members.denverastro.org/event-5564369

Spring Banquet Presentation

Speaker:
Dr. Jordi Casanova,
Regis University

Presentation Title:
"The Classical Nova Concert"

Our Speaker:
Dr. Jordi Casanova earned his PhD from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia and is an assistant professor at Regis University. Previously, he has worked at North Carolina State University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a post-doctoral researcher. Here in Colorado, he has taught at the Colorado Community College System and at the Metropolitan State University of Denver. He is a theoretical astrophysicist interested in deciphering how stars explode and die.

Presentation:

Classical novae are explosive phenomena that take place in stellar binary systems. They are powered by mass transfer from a low-mass, main-sequence star onto a white dwarf. During these events, material enriched in CNO (carbon-nitrogen-oxygen) and other intermediate-mass elements will be ejected into the interstellar medium. The origin of the metallicity enhancement observed in high-resolution spectra of ejected nova shells has, however, remained unexplained for almost half a century.

Dr. Casanova will present multi-dimensional simulations of classical novae with the FLASH code (an adaptive mesh hydrodynamics code for modeling astrophysical thermonuclear flashes) and discuss the role of Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities as a natural mechanism for self-enrichment of the accreted envelope with core material. The result is a metallicity enhancement that is consistent with the observed values.

2024 Annual Elections

Web Master — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 20:37:42 GMT

Reminder: Voting is now OPEN for Executive Board Officers and Trustees

This is your opportunity to select who will play a leadership role in Denver Astronomical Society, one of the largest astronomy clubs in the U.S. We urge you to participate!

Your ballot invitation has been emailed to the email address you used to register your account with DAS.

Per our Bylaws (https://denverastro.org/docs/20230925BylawsSigned.pdf), Executive Board Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) and Trustees (eight positions) serve one-year terms.

For this year's nominations and election, Greg Fogarty is our Election Chairperson. If you have any questions, please email elections@denverastro.org

Here are some key dates to remember:

February 4, 2024 - Nominations close at midnight.
February 5, 2024 - Electronic voting begins at 9:00 p.m.

February 12, 2024 - Voting will end during our Annual Business Meeting; the results will be announced after the meeting's presentation.

March 24, 2024 - Newly-elected Officers and Trustees will be seated during our Spring Banquet.

YouTube: DAS General Meeting | Dr. Charles Nick Arge | 4/22/2022

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 00:42:10 GMT

DAS General Meeting
April 22, 2022
with Dr. Charles Nick Arge

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltQON7PQg9g

YouTube: DAS In-reach | "Women in Space and Astronomy" - Sabrina DeSoto | 3/26/22

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 22:40:56 GMT

DAS In-Reach March 26, 2022

"Women in Space and Astronomy" presented by Sabrina DeSoto

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5e3jDPxKKVk

Annual Meeting, Election & Zoom Link

President — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 18:21:14 GMT

Zoom Link for Annual Meeting & Election:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85222895465?pwd=ZmU4WlpTaHZUK0ladm1XTE1mSGxOQT09

Agenda:

Introductions:
New Members
Guests
Tim Pimentel:
Online Voting Advisory - until 8:30 p.m.
John Bickel:
Astronomy Minute
Mehmet Unsoy:
In-Reach Certificate Program for Attendees
In-Reach on Feb 26, Intro to Solar Observing
Announcement of Past & Current Membership Figures
Treasurer Jon Mesick:
Recap of 2021 Financial Statement
VP July Candia:
Introduction of tonight's speaker
Tim Pimentel:
Election Results
Observing Reports

Link for February 7 In-Reach With Dave Tondreau

President — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 00:17:19 GMT

Here is the link for the February 7 In-Reach with Dave Tondreau, "The Absolute Beginner's Guide To The Moon"
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82764397364?pwd=QmIrTldmTTRJMHZITWJEWU9ieE1QZz09

Notice to Members

President — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 03:22:35 GMT

Due to the fact that the DAS has moved to an all-new website at http://denverastro.org, some of the links here on the Member Portal will no longer work. The old website no longer exists, and the new website has all new labels for pages.
If you find a broken link, please email info@denverastro.org to advise us of it and we will attempt to replace it. Please state the location of the broken link on the Member Portal so we can also find that.
Thank you.

Zoom Link for General October 22

President — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 01:26:48 GMT

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82699668032?pwd=eEVyZXJBSW5UYmU1Wm5zVWtBYWxjZz09

October E-Board Meeting Zoom Link

President — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 23:29:23 GMT

Please use this link to join tonight's meeting of the Executive Board of the DAS.

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86438862352?pwd=MVJGNEZrekpZQ2M2NHNnTXAxOER2UT09

VNH Auction 2021

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 01:09:34 GMT

Coming soon: The VNH online silent auction. The link can be found here: https://www.32auctions.com/DAS-VNH2021

The auction opens for bids at October 16 at 5 AM MDT, and will continue to October 23rd at 11:45 PM MDT.

Please help support our Scholarship fund!

Website Transition in Progress

President — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 19:43:54 GMT

The DAS website that existed for the past two decades and more has been taken down. The new website will be up a little later today. There will still be a little bit of work to be done with it in coming days, but the new website will be far more stable than the old one.

Zoom Link for September 13 In-Reach

President — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 21:13:33 GMT

Here is the Zoom Link for this evening's In-Reach event featuring Dr. Joe Pesce:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83110889697?pwd=eVh4Rkpqb3FqWEhOSFJzckZza01VQT09

Zoom Link for General Meeting August 20

President — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 22:30:42 GMT

We hope you'll join us this evening for our monthly meeting, featuring Dr. Simone Marchi of Southwest Research Institute, who will speak about the Early Earth. The link to join is https://zoom.us/j/98199022977?pwd=ZjV1SGNpK2RRdHVveStUMTVGTmpwQT09 .
See you soon!

Zoom link for In Reach

President — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 23:37:13 GMT

Sorry this is late. The Member Portal was down earlier.
https://zoom.us/j/98772804738?pwd=c3B0SGt5cXdjYlJtaEhaM1J1a0p1UT09

Zoom Link for General Meeting July 23

President — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 23:10:30 GMT

The Zoom Room will open at 7, and the meeting proper will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Topic: July General Meeting

Time: Jul 23, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time

Join Zoom Meeting:

https://zoom.us/j/92068440934pwd=SkNrVkJsM1ZMRWlxcml3aUFUUEgydz09

Meeting ID: 920 6844 0934

Passcode: 720275

Zoom Link for E-Board Meeting July 16

President — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:45:44 GMT

Here's the Zoom link for the E-Board meeting tomorrow evening.

Topic: E-Board Meeting July 2021

Time: Jul 16, 2021 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/91451259359?pwd=VkZsZkpFZGFPd0VkbE5Ua2kwak1kZz09

Meeting ID: 914 5125 9359

Passcode: 811542

Link to June 25 Meeting

President — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 20:08:34 GMT

Please use this information to join us for tonight's meeting:

To join the DAS Zoom meeting, copy this link into your browser:

https://zoom.us/j/92940777019?pwd=R014UUVsNFByc0hwZ0hwSy96dUJ1Zz09

You should not need a meeting ID or Password, but if you do, they are:

Meeting ID: 929 4077 7019
Passcode: 542687

For those using One tap mobile:
+16699009128,,92940777019#,,,,*542687# US (San Jose)
+12532158782,,92940777019#,,,,*542687# US (Tacoma)

Via telephone:
For those joining via phone, there is not a local call-in number. Choose from one of
the following (long distance charges will apply unless you have free long distance):

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

Meeting ID: 929 4077 7019
Passcode: 542687

DAS Website UP!

President — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 16:58:32 GMT

The denverastro.org website has been restored to normal operation.
Stay tuned for the replacement sometime in August!

DAS Website down

President — Sat, 12 Jun 2021 19:20:56 GMT

The DAS website is down and we don't know for how long. Our webmaster is out of state, and we may have to wait for his return to see if come back online. Our apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

Van Nattan-Hansen Scholarship Fund is accepting applications!

President — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 20:26:57 GMT

The Scholarship Fund is accepting applications from students who will be pursuing a four-year degree in the physical sciences, preferably related to astronomy, astrophysics, and related engineering.

Please spread the word about the applications being open far and wide, and let people know they can start applying as of now.

Information about the process is located at the VNH Scholarship page on our website, here:

https://www.denverastro.org/?page_id=201

The actual application process has been moved completely online, and is located here:

https://qvbtfntp.paperform.co/

Additionally, I ask that if you know anyone involved in education, whether at the high school or college level, to let them know as well. We want to spread the word far and wide. Teachers, professors, guidance counselors, principals, financial aid officers, administrators . . .

Thanks!

Jon Groubert

Ingenuity Has Flown!

President — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:14:12 GMT

The live NASA/JPL feed from the team receiving the results and first photo and video of the first flight of the Mars Ingenuity helicopter occurred at 4:15 a.m. MST today! The NASA/JPL team members were ecstatic.
More information, photos and videos will be available later today.
Congratulations to the Ingenuity team!

2021 Executive Board Voting Progress

President — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 15:59:43 GMT

Voting is now open, and closes at 9 PM MST on Feb 26, 2021.

2021 Executive Board Nominations

President — Sat, 23 Jan 2021 20:28:15 GMT

Have you thought about a leadership role in Denver Astronomical Society? It’s a great way to be involved in continuing to make DAS the great organization that it is. Do you know someone who would be great in a leadership role at DAS?

Nominations for the election of Executive Board (“E-Board”) trustees and officers will open during January’s general membership meeting on Jan 29th, and will remain open until noon February 24th Denver time.

2021’s election is scheduled for our annual membership meeting on Friday, February 26th at our Virtual General Meeting using "ElectionBuddy.com" election management software (details to follow). The election is planned to open the morning of February 25th and will close at 9 PM February 26 during the General Meeting, to allow early voting.

If you’re interested in throwing your hat in the ring drop a note to this year’s Election Chair, Tim Pimentel. He can be reached at nominations@denverastro.org.

DAS Member Johnny Barela has passed away

Vice President — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 16:59:37 GMT

VPresident (Administrator)

We at the DAS are sad to announce that DAS member Johnny Barela passed away this morning, December 16, at 6:00 a.m., following an illness, and while in the hospital.
Johnny and his wife, Eileen, won the Bills Ormsby Memorial Volunteer Award a couple of years ago for their outstanding service to the club and the public.
Our deepest condolences go out to Eileen, and we will be sharing more information later when she is able to provide it.

DAS Scholarship Auction now open bids

President — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 16:30:41 GMT

The DAS auction website is now open for bids. The auction began on Oct 31, and continues until Nov 8.

The Event can be found HERE

The Items can be found HERE

Please check your email or event calendar for information about how to setup an account to make your own bid.

The starting bid on some working OTAs is $1.00
The starting bid on OTAs in parts is also $1.00

Have you ever wanted a 16 inch Dob? It could be yours! Starting bid $1.00

Come support our VNH Scholarship fund!

DAS Scholarship Auction now open for Previews

President — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 04:28:40 GMT

The DAS auction website is now open for previews. The auction begins on Oct 31, and continues until Nov 8.

The Event can be found HERE

The Previews can be found HERE

Come support our VNH Scholarship fund!

Virtual General Meeting

President — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 02:51:12 GMT

Please be aware that the Virtual General Meeting on Friday June 5th is "Virtual" meaning that we will not be meeting in-person at ACC.

If you wish to join the meeting, please use the meeting link in the Event Calendar Here.

RMSS 2020 Canceled

Ed Ladner — Thu, 07 May 2020 11:33:49 GMT

The good people at CSAS have announced that the RMSS 2020 event has been canceled. The notice here went up some time prior to May 4th. The text reads:

THE PREMIER STAR PARTY OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS
UPDATE RMSS 2020 CANCELLED.
DUE TO THE ONGOING ISSUES RELATED TO THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS, RMSS IS REGRETTABLY CANCELED FOR 2020. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND ON THE COVID 19 PAGE WITHIN THE 2020 EVENT INFO. WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE DISRUPTION TO WHAT IS THE HIGHLIGHT FOR THE SUMMER FOR MANY OF US. NEVERTHELESS, AS WE ARE ASTRONOMERS- KEEP LOOKING UP!

Additional information can be found here, but does not appear to be current.

Edmund G. Kline Dark Site: Limited Reopening

Ed Ladner — Wed, 06 May 2020 19:37:05 GMT

The DAS Dark Site Committee is pleased to announce the reopening of our Dark Site for a limited number of attendees starting on May 16th for initial new member orientation, and then again on May 22-24 for the Dark Sky Weekend.

Social Distancing:

With the State and County guidelines for social distancing, and our Dark Site zoned as a business, we will be keeping the attendance at the Dark site limited to 10 people at all times. Further, the warming hut will be kept closed, as we are unable to guarantee the required social distance spacing of six feet between members, nor surface cleaning inside the building. The outhouse will be open for personal needs, and we will make all reasonable efforts to ensure that it is clean. With this in mind, we ask members using the outhouse to diligently make efforts to clean high contact surfaces such as the handle and the seat before and after use. We will work to ensure cleaning supplies are present during orientation and dark sky weekends.

We require that all attendees respect Federal, State and County social distancing guidelines at all times. People unable to respect these guidelines will be asked to leave. This includes the use of face coverings. We recognize that a face covering at the eyepiece is counter-productive to observing, so we will be making an exception for active observers, while observing, who are otherwise practicing social distancing.

Lottery for entry:

In order to ensure fair and equitable access to the dark site, we will be creating a lottery system that will be available prior to the Orientation and Dark Sky weekends. You may sign up for 1 evening slot for 1 person per weekend. For the upcoming weekends the lottery days will be May 16 for Orientation, and May 22, 23, 24 for the Dark Sky weekend. Weekdays and weekends with low expected attendance will be on the first come basis on the honor system. The honor system means that if you arrive at the dark site on a non-lottery night, and there are already 10 people there, then you will leave.

The notification of the lottery being open will occur on the Monday prior to the weekend by email from the membership portal. Ensure that your email notification is up to date, and that you are successfully receiving notifications.

Lottery winners will be notified directly by email, and will be required to bring a copy (virtual or physical) to the dark site to gain entrance.

The lottery is all about luck, as is weather for a given night for the dark sky weekend. In the event of bad weather on your selected night, we will be unable to reschedule you.

Safety first:

If there are any reports of more than 10 people present, the Dark Site committee will need to reconsider the opening of the Dark Site.

Please remember that the Dark Site committee volunteers who are present are there for your safety, and are doing so at personal risk. Please exercise polite respect and restraint toward your volunteers.

New content added to The Observer

Vice President — Mon, 04 May 2020 20:54:44 GMT

Our editor, Mike Lucibella, has just added content for May to The Observer. Please check it out here:

https://www.denverastro.org/?p=5181

Remember, Mike is seeking content from you, our members! Email him at editor@denverastro.org with YOUR news.

A reminder about tonight's Youtube Live Stream

President — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 21:49:27 GMT

Tonight we have Ron Hranac presenting "Meteorites: A Collector's Perspective." on the DAS Youtube livestream channel Here at 7:30 PM MDT.
Please join us for the presentation and ask questions via the Youtube comments.

Notice to all DAS members, cancellations extended.

Ed Ladner — Sat, 18 Apr 2020 16:39:00 GMT

We have made the decision to extend the cancellation of all indoor DAS events through June 30, 2020 because of concerns about COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The cancellations include April, May and June Public Nights, Open House, In-Reach, and VNH Scholarship Committee meeting. Public Night reservations for for all months will be blocked.

The E-Board meeting will continue to be held via conference call instead of in-person. All members are welcome to attend these meetings, and conference connection information will be provided as the time approaches.

While we are extremely disappointed that we cannot continue with these events as planned, we believe this is the right decision given the current circumstances.

We are monitoring the situation closely and will make further decisions in the coming days and weeks as appropriate. We will continue to review our guidance based on official advice.

Please check the Member Portal or our website, denverastro.org for updates, which will be posted as the situation evolves. Questions may be directed to president@denverastro.org .

- Your Denver Astronomical Society Executive Officers

Darksite closed

President — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 15:16:56 GMT

In consultation with the Dark site committee, we have decided to close the Dark site until the state of emergency, and restrictions on gatherings have passed.

We thank you for your understanding.

DAS Event Cancellations due to Coronavirus

Vice President — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 22:00:21 GMT

Notice to all DAS members:

We have made the decision to cancel all indoor DAS events through March 31, 2020 because of concerns about COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The
cancellations include March's Public Nights, Open House, In-Reach, and
VNH Scholarship Committee meeting. Public Night reservations for April and May will be blocked.

The E-Board meeting will be held via conference call instead of in-person.

While we are extremely disappointed that we cannot continue with these events as planned, we believe this is the right decision given the current circumstances.

We are monitoring the situation closely and will make further decisions in
the coming days and weeks as appropriate. We will continue to review our guidance based on official advice.

Please check the Member Portal or our website, denverastro.org for updates, which will be posted as the situation evolves. Questions may be directed to president@denverastro.org .

- Your Denver Astronomical Society Executive Officers

February General Meeting rescheduled for Feb 28th

President — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 21:45:21 GMT

The February Annual General meeting for the 2020 elections has been rescheduled for February 28th starting at 7:30 PM at ACC.

Additional details will follow.

Public tickets for PBS TV-12 with Dean Regas now available.

Ed Ladner — Mon, 10 Feb 2020 18:07:06 GMT

TV12 has just announced availability of tickets for the Dean Regas appearance in Denver on Fri. May 1st. Tickets for the general public are available here.

https://www.cpt12.org/tickets/current-ticket-offers/buy-tickets/?event_id=154

Members who have signed up to be telescope operators will get a separate notice to sign up.

February General Meeting Canceled

Vice President — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 16:54:26 GMT

Due to winter driving conditions, this evening's meeting at Arapahoe Community College has been canceled. Our tentative reschedule date will be February 28. Members will receive a new email with confirmation of the new date.
Stay safe and warm!

Spring Banquet 2020 now open for registration

Ed Ladner — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 04:48:32 GMT

DAS' annual Spring Banquet is scheduled for Saturday March 7. Online registration is now available! Please go to Spring Banquet to register and choose from new menu items, as well as getting all the details. We look forward to seeing you there!

Forum error with file uploads (UPDATE)

Ed Ladner — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:03:46 GMT

Good News,

Wild Apricot has resolved the bug that was blocking us from uploading images and attachments.

Thank you for your patience with this issue.

Ed L.

Forum error with file uploads

Ed Ladner — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 17:43:00 GMT

We are currently experiencing an issue with the upload of files to the forums. We have an open case with Wild Apricot for support.

We are aware of this issue, and are working to resolve it.

Thanks,

Ed L.

2020 Executive Board Elections

Ed Ladner — Sat, 14 Dec 2019 21:26:01 GMT

Once again election season will soon be upon us to select a new Executive Board. Starting on January 17, 2020 at the General Meeting (@ Arapahoe Community College) we will open the nomination process.

The any voting member present at the February 7, 2020 General Meeting will be allowed to vote in accordance with our bylaws.

Tim Pimentel has agreed to run our elections again this year, and I want to express my thanks to him for stepping up and showing the spirit of volunteerism that makes the DAS function.

Positions open for nomination are:

President
Vice-President
Treasurer
Secretary
Trustee (8 seats open)

If you, or someone you know, are a member in good standing, and are interested in any of these seats, please reach out to our elections officer (Tim) when nominations are open. More details will be published as the nominations window gets closer.

PUBLIC NIGHT FOR 11/26 CANCELLED DUE TO BAD WEATHER

Ed Ladner — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The current forecast is for heavy snowfall today and tomorrow and very cold temperatures tomorrow evening and night, making travel difficult. Accordingly, public night for tomorrow, Tuesday 11/26, is cancelled. We will offer refunds or new reservations to all who signed up.

Everyone have a happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Banquet now open for registration

Ed Ladner — Sun, 17 Nov 2019 21:01:42 GMT

The Holiday Banquet for December 15 is now open for registration here. Holiday Banquet

Please join us for good food, drinks, and an engaging speaker. Once again we will be having extended time for socializing.

Watch Mercury Transit via Livestream

July Candia — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 14:03:19 GMT

Very disappointing that we won't be able to observe the Mercury Transit today. You can livestream at https://www.space.com/ and also get updates from the NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory: https://mercurytransit.gsfc.nasa.gov/2019/

Mercury Transit Open House Event CANCELED

Vice President — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 13:21:59 GMT

Due to inclement weather, we cannot open the dome at Chamberlin Observatory to attempt to view the transit. Next chance: 2049.

Mercury transit open house - updates here!

Ed Ladner — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 04:35:09 GMT

With the current weather forecast, there is a high risk that the November 11 open house may be cancelled. Please watch here for updates.

Public Night October 29, 2019 - CANCELED

Ed Ladner — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 13:58:37 GMT

Due to the current and impending weather, low temperatures, and the expected road conditions, the October 29, 2019 Public Night has been canceled for both volunteers and guests.

Mercury Transit at Chamberlin Observatory - November 11, 2019!

July Candia — Thu, 24 Oct 2019 02:16:44 GMT

Join the DAS and DU at Chamberlin Observatory on November 11, 2019 for the MERCURY TRANSIT. The next one after that is November 13, 2032. We are planning to observe the transit with both the Alvin-Clark telescope and solar telescopes on the lawn.

We need volunteers with solar telescopes, some dome volunteers/certified telescope operators, ticket takers, traffic flow at staircase, and a few people for observatory tours. So far, we have the volunteers below. Thanks!

You can also join us for this rare astronomical event just for fun! No need to volunteer unless you want to.

Let me know if you would like to help! Email me at: julycandia@gmail.com

Set-up at 7:00 AM. Observing starts at 7:30 AM

VOLUNTEERS:

Dome/Scope: Joe Godwin-Austen, July Candia

Solar Scopes: Ron #3

Tours/Social: Jason Cordova

Keyholder/General: Dena McClung

https://twitter.com/denverastro?lang=en

https://www.denverastro.org/?ai1ec_event=transit-of-mercury&instance_id=583

http://www.stargazersonline.org/episodes/1940.html

https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/denver

NO In-Reach this evening

Dena McClung — Sat, 19 Oct 2019 15:32:41 GMT

Due to the event at Sandstone Ranch, there will be no In-Reach this evening.

Mercury Transit Event at Chamberlin Observatory - November 11, 2018

July Candia — Wed, 09 Oct 2019 00:48:18 GMT

Hello All,

Dr. Stencil and I are planning a Mercury Transit Event at Chamberlin on November 11, 2019. We are planning to observe the transit with both the Alvin-Clark telescope and telescopes on the lawn.

We need volunteers with with solar telescopes, some dome volunteers/certified operators, ticket takers, traffic flow at staircase, and a few people for observatory tours. We also need a keyholder to open up that day.

Start time: Set-up at 7:00 or 7:30 AM. Observing starts at ~ 8:00 AM.

http://www.stargazersonline.org/episodes/1940.html

https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/denver

Please reply at julycandia@gmail.com if you would like to help. I will also post under the General Forum. Thanks!

October Outreach Events 2019 - URGENT need 10/02- Star Party

July Candia — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 17:33:28 GMT

Wednesday, Oct 2, STAR PARTY

Julie Wesling 6th grade. Stargate Charter School, 14530 Washington St, Thornton, CO 80023. Phone: (303) 450-3936

Getting More details.

Contact: julie.wesling@stargateschool.org

__________

Saturday, 10/05/19, SOLAR VIEWING

- Location NAME and Address: Lakewood Library 10200 W. 20^th St. Lakewood, CO 80215

- Check in procedures: Come in to the front desk and ask for Grace, Tina, or Gloria

- Contact person and phone for volunteers (if further questions): Grace Peterson. Cell 928-301-8966 or call the Library at 303-235-5275 and ask for Grace at Lakewood EMAIL: Grace.Peterson@JeffcoLibrary.org

- Start Time: Event starts at 2pm to 4pm. We have allowed for an hour of set up and take down.

- # of visitors expected: 50

- Set-up Location for SOLAR telescopes (will need close car access to unload): We have a patio and lawn area off of Miller street that a telescope can be set up at. It is right next to the parking lot and we will mark off a few spaces for you.

- Parking: We have a public parking lot and we will mark off 4 spaces for you. If you need more please let me know.

Inclement weather plan/preferences: We have our meeting room reserved and will be having activities indoors as well.

____________

Saturday, 10/05/19. GIRL SCOUT DAY

Girl Scout Day—October 19:

Join us for our annual Girl Scout Day at Dinosaur Ridge! It's also National Fossil Day, so come learn about fossils and celebrate. All Girl Scouts, friends, and family are invited. We'll have a representative from area STEM organizations with activities for the girls.

For all the details please see: http://dinoridge.org/girl-scout-day/

Contact: Eileen Barela, ojohnny70@hotmail.com, 303-922-9179

CONTACT JULYCANDIA@GMAIL.COM OR OUTREACH@DENVERASTRO.ORG IF YOU CAN HELP WITH ANY EVENTS. THANKS!

Annual DAS October 2019 Auction

Ed Ladner — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 14:19:56 GMT

As a sneak peek, I have taken a look at some of the scopes that are going to be at the Annual Auction. I have a quick summary list here. I'll be getting more details posted as they become available.

Celestron C8 with tripod (1990's vintage)
Celestron NexStar 8 in original shipping box with tripod (never used?)
Meade ETX-125EC in original box
Meade ETX-90 in nice case
Zhumell (Bird-Jones style) small Newtonian with GEM mount and tripod
Huge Newtonian (20" mirror possibly?) hand made with dob style mount
A collection of Meade 2" Super Plossl EPs (14, 32, 40, and 56mm)
A full set of Meade Series 5000 UWA EPs (5.5, 8.8, 24, 30mm)
A full set of Meade Series 5000 HD-60 EPs(4.5, 6.5, 9, 12, 18, 24mm)
A collection of Celestron Ultima EPs (12.5, 30, 42mm)
Other assorted EPs
Photographic tripod with fluid head
Books

This is just what the DAS is putting into the auction. Who knows what else is being brought in by individuals?

Some of these will be up with no reserve!

What other deals might be found?!

Come join us on October 12 @ 11 am when the auction starts.

Available for Observing Soon: the DAS 444

Zachary Singer — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 00:20:09 GMT

I had the chance to "fly" the DAS 444, the Society's 17.5-inch Dobsonian, a few weeks ago, on its first dark-sky test--the telescope will soon be available to experienced DAS members.

The 444 is a real beauty, with power to spare and movements as creamy as butter. Stuart Hutchins and Digby Kirby worked hard on this, and it shows.

As the 'scope was just out for a short "test hop" the night I came to the dark sky site, we hit a few of the usual suspects--M31 (the Andromeda Galaxy), M57 (Ring Nebula), and so forth. The 444 easily showed M31's dark lanes with a 35mm eyepiece, at roughly 60x; the field was wide enough to include the satellite galaxy, M110, as well. The dark lanes were even easier with a 21mm eyepiece at about 95x.

M110 itself revealed much more detail than I am used to seeing in my 12-inch. With the 21mm in the 444, M110 clearly displayed structure, with a distinct inner core and extended halo. Usually, this small galaxy is an afterthought while viewing M31, but with the big 'scope, it was a beautiful object on its own.

Though the Ring Nebula is visible even in a 4-inch Mak, the 444 has enough oomph to project a notably large and bright image, easily viewed with direct vision--it was lovely.

If you haven't heard, the 444 won recognition at the recent Rocky Mountain Star Stare, and for good reason, I think. Still, the real proof of any telescope is in its images, and this one truly shines. My hat is off to these two fellows for the work they've put in, and for the quality of the result. We are very fortunate to have this instrument.

Experienced DAS observers interested in training (or those just wanting to check the 444 out), get in touch with Digby Kirby: odigby@gmail.com or 970-301-2287.

--Zach Singer

August (last minute request) 2019 and September 2019 Outreach Events

July Candia — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 20:04:35 GMT

External Outreach events are posted for August and September. Please see the OUTREACH FORUM.

We would love to have new volunteers. We have enthusiastic DAS mentors available for you. You will meet new people from all backgrounds and you may actually have fun too!

Public Outreach

Ed Ladner — Sat, 20 Jul 2019 20:16:28 GMT

"Please, everyone, consider volunteering at future outreach events. It's a wonderful way to get to know your fellow DAS members, share your knowledge, and learn from others. The following quote, attributed to Aristotle, seems relevant:

“The more you know, the more you know you don't know.”

So, let's just volunteer no matter how much or how little we know! We're bound to benefit ourselves in the long run and help DAS in furthering their mission of spreading interest in exploring and enjoying the wonders of the universe."

-- Mary Ann Wallace

Chamberlin 125th/Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration, July 13, 2019

July Candia — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 18:28:35 GMT

*Call for Volunteers for the 125th Chamberlin/Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration, July 13, 2019*

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Solar scopes, kids' and adult activities, Chamberlin Tours, Speakers, and any other activity volunteers might like to provide related to Chamberlin History, the moon, astronomy, or Apollo 11.

4:00 PM: DAS Member Picnic, Chamberlin

8:30 PM - 11:00 PM: Open House as usual: lawn telescopes, tours.

Guest Speaker at 8:30 PM: Richard Blake of STEMPunk: Apollo 11 Mission: "Fly Me to the Moon"

________________

VOLUNTEERS:

Johnny and Eileen Barela (10:00 - 2:00 PM): Variety of kid's astro-activities

Speakers (10:00 - 2:00 PM): Ken Sturrock: Chamberlin History; Dave Tondreau: Moon and/or Apollo 11; July Candia: Women Astronauts & Astronomers

Tours: Brad Gilman (day and night), Joe Godwin-Austen (day), Ron Rhranac

Replay Video on Chamberlin Observatory (no sound; day and night) and Chamberlin Posters: Bill Kast and Dr. Stencel

Chamberlin and Apollo 11 Stickers: Jason Cordova

Card Board Astronaut Pictures (day): Provided by Mile High Astronomy

___________________

*We need more volunteers for TOURS, SOLAR TELESCOPES, & evening telescopes as usual, and fun/engaging outside ACTIVITIES/TABLES for both adults and children. We are also in need of a day time PHOTOGRAPHER to provide pics with the Clark-Saegmuller telescope.

One activity that would be fun: the plastic golf ball as an "eyeball" that burns up w/o a solar filter when placed at the telescope eyepiece.

Please respond under the Outreach Portal if you would like to volunteer. Thanks!

Volunteers are encouraged to dress in Steam Punk/Victorian costumes!

Free Night at DMNS on Tuesday, July 2, 2019

July Candia — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 23:11:17 GMT

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science will have a SCFD Free Night on Tuesday, July 2 from 5pm-10pm. Telescope volunteers are needed. Please see the Outreach Forum to volunteer for this event (and other events in July). Or just come for a night at the museum!

Governor Polis declares June as "Dark Sky Month" in Colorado

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 15:12:49 GMT

Here's a link to the story from 5280 Magazine:

https://www.5280.com/2019/06/6-of-colorados-best-stargazing-destinations/

GENERAL MEETING Tonight 5/17/19 at 7:30 PM - "ARE WE ALONE IN THE UNIVERSE?"

July Candia — Fri, 17 May 2019 21:55:04 GMT

Professor Brad Gibson, University of Hull, Great Britain: "Are We Alone in the Universe?"... honoured to be delivering a public talk on the topic, in Denver, on May 17th @ 7:30pm. Fun & thought-provoking; come hear me @UofDenver at the Denver Astronomical Society; details: https://www.denverastro.org/?ai1ec_event=general-meeting-may-2019 …@denverastro @CityofDenver @DPSNewsNow

June 2019 Outreach

July Candia — Fri, 17 May 2019 21:52:54 GMT

June 2019 Outreach Events Posted under the "Outreach Events" Forum. Please reply if you would like to volunteer. Thanks!

May Open House this Saturday, May 11

Mon, 06 May 2019 21:22:28 GMT

Join volunteer members of the DAS for an evening of sky viewing at DU's Historic Chamberlin Observatory, located at 2930 E Warren Avenue in Denver. Member telescopes, including a section designated as "Learners' Land," will be available for viewing on the south lawn, as well as Chamberlin's 1894 20" refractor in the dome. Open House begins at 8:00 p.m. but members are welcome to set up their telescopes well in advance.

In Reach this Saturday April 27

Thu, 25 Apr 2019 17:06:54 GMT

"Locating the Apollo Landing [sites] via the Lunar Elephant" is the topic for the In-Reach event this Saturday, April 27. We'll meet at 7:30 p.m. at DU's historic Chamberlin Observatory to learn and share.

April Open House this Saturday evening

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 01:51:08 GMT

DAS' monthly Open House is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. this Saturday, April 13 at DU's historic Chamberlin Observatory. We hope to have good weather and see many members set up their telescopes and other observing devices on the south lawn to support this important public outreach effort.

Dark Site Committee meeting Apr 13th 2019 at 4pm

Ed Ladner — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 22:43:18 GMT

The DAS Dark Site committee is having a committee meeting on Apr 13th at 4pm at the Chamberlin Observatory.

This meeting is to discuss the ongoing work to keep up the DAS Edmund G. Kline Dark Site.

Everyone interested in keeping this valuable resource of the DAS should attend this meeting, and contribute to the upkeep of this dark jewel.

Member In-Reach this Saturday, March 30

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 03:17:21 GMT

In-Reach for Members

Saturday March 30, 7:30 p.m.

Chamberlin Observatory

2930 E Warren Avenue, Denver

"Using Cassiopeia As A Guidepost"

In-Reach Coordinator Bill "Mr. Bill" Stevens will teach us how to use the constellation Cassiopeia to find other constellations using his "Cassiopeia Guide Post" hand out and hands-on training. Mr. Bill will provide two or three telescopes, describe how to use them safely and with care. A pair of binoculars will also be available, and he asks you to bring your own binoculars if you so desire.

This In-Reach event will be very informative for members who are new to astronomy, and a good refresher for those who have not observed in recent years.

Be sure to dress in layers in case the temperatures drop, and feel welcome to bring snacks for yourself or to share with others.

New Forum!

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 04:45:51 GMT

Due to requests from several members, there is now an Amateur Telescope Maker (ATM) forum. It's a place for builders, tinkerers and thinkers to post their projects, ideas, plans, and questions.

February In-Reach Cancelled

Zachary Singer — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 20:33:02 GMT

** Please note that the In-Reach originally scheduled for Saturday, February 23rd, 2019, has been cancelled.

DAS 2019 Election Results

Ed Ladner — Sat, 16 Feb 2019 17:56:22 GMT

By acclamation, here are the 2019 election results for the Executive Board of the Denver Astronomical Society. The new officers and trustees will be installed at the Spring Banquet on Saturday, March 23, 2019.

Officers
- President - Ed Ladner
- Vice Pres. - Dena McClung
- Secretary - Joanne Cusick
- Treasurer - Scott Perrin
- Past Pres - Ron Hranac
Trustees
- July Candia
- Jason Cordova
- Jack Eastman
- Joe Gafford
- Ivan Geisler
- Joe Godwin-Austen
- Ed Scholes
- Chris Ubing

Tim Pimentel

2019 Nominations/Election Chair

Expanded Hours for Spring Banquet

Zachary Singer — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 19:42:56 GMT

To increase DAS members' opportunities to socialize before and after our upcoming Spring Banquet, we have arranged to start earlier and finish later than has been usual in the past: The expanded times now start 5:30 PM, and end at 10:00 PM (dinner is at 7:00, as before).

February DAS News is online

Zachary Singer — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 19:40:10 GMT

DAS News for February is on our website, at https://www.denverastro.org/?page_id=3766, along with the rest of the articles for the February 2019 Observer. In the News, we have notes on the upcoming DAS Election (you can still run for office!), the Spring Banquet, the upcoming 125th Anniversary of the Chamberlin Observatory, our new In-Reach Coordinator, and some nice shots of the recent lunar eclipse.

Registration open for Spring Banquet (Spring Gala)

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 00:23:38 GMT

DAS' annual Spring Banquet is scheduled for Saturday March 23. Online registration is now available! Please go to https://members.denverastro.org/event-2957758 to register and choose from new menu items, as well as getting all the details. We look forward to seeing you there!

February Outreach 2019 UPDATE

July Candia — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 01:19:31 GMT

February Outreach 2019 UPDATE posted. Please see "Outreach Events" Forum. More volunteers welcome!

Help needed for Public Nights

July Candia — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 21:15:26 GMT

Hello PN Teams (and DAS members),

July Candia is on PN Team 4 on Thursdays (T#4 is assigned every 2 weeks). She started a new travel job here in Colorado (contract lasts until 5/2/19) and will likely not be able to make it to Public Night. Please let us know if you can cover any of these dates:

2/14, 2/28, 3/14, 3/28, 4/11, 4/25

We have four people on Team 4: Brad Gilman (scope), Joe Kozic (scope), Ken Sturrock(scope, presenter), July Candia (scope, occ. presenter). So, if you could help with the telescope or presentation, or even with traffic flow in the dome that would be great.

Team 4 is in a bit of trouble because sometimes Ken has to go out of state for his job and Brad will be busy with tax season, so he may have to miss PN as well.

Email July.Candia@gmail.com if you can help.

Spring Banquet Registration is open

Ed Ladner — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 05:19:02 GMT

The Spring Banquet registration is now open for portal members.

We will still support members who wish to mail in their payment inside the portal, and we will be sending out physical invitations to our members who are unable to access email. These physical registrations must be received by the Treasurer on or before March 15th.

Online registrations are open until March 18th

Please click here to go to the Event Registration!

https://members.denverastro.org/event-2957758

February Outreach Events 2019

July Candia — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 02:25:26 GMT

February External Outreach Events posted under "General Discussion." Please let me know if you can help. Thanks!

In reach for January 26 is canceled

Ed Ladner — Sat, 26 Jan 2019 02:12:32 GMT

We are still searching for an in reach coordinator. As a result we will be canceling tomorrow’s in reach.

When a new coordinator is identified, we will get the schedule published.

Thanks,

Ed L.

2019 Executive Board nominations

Ed Ladner — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 03:37:29 GMT

At our January 18th General meeting we opened for nominations for the 2019 Executive board.

The following nominations were recognized:

Nominations for President
- Ed Ladner
Nominations for Vice President
- None
Nominations for Secretary
- None
Nominations for Treasurer
- Scott Perrin (Incumbent)
Trustees
- Jack Eastman (Incumbent)
- Chris Ubing (Incumbent)
- Dena McClung (Incumbent)
- Ed Scholes (Incumbent)
- Joe Gafford (Incumbent)
- July Candia (Incumbent)
- Joe Godman-Austin
- Ivan Giesler

Nominations remain open until the February 15th General meeting when the elections will take place.

Passing of Jerry Sherlin

Ed Ladner — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 21:08:28 GMT

A memorial service for Jerry Sherlin will be held Saturday, January 12 11am at;

Southeast Church of Christ, 14601 E. Yale Avenue, Aurora, CO 80014

Obituary

He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1959, retiring in 1981. In the Air Force, he attended the weather forecasting school and spent most of his career in space weather predictions. He served at the Air Force's Geophysics Labs (Hanscom Field, MA) for three years, followed by four years at the Air Force Global Weather Central’s Space Environmental department, where real-time reports from solar observatories around the world were received and the data used to forecast the effects of solar activity (e.g. solar flares and CMEs) on NASA-USAF near-Earth space missions and HF radio propagation.

Jerry was assigned to the Learmonth Solar Observatory, Learmonth, Western Australia where he served as Superintendent of the radio observatory. Learmonth Solar Observatory is jointly operated by Australian Bureau of Meteorology - Space Weather Services and the USAF as part of their Solar Observing Optical Network. Jerry pointed out that both telescopes at Learmonth, Australia, and Holloman AFB we made by Dr Richard Dunn, former Director of the USAF solar observatory at Sacramento Peak, NM.

Jerry worked as a civil servant at the Air Force’s Sacramento Peak Sunspot Solar Observatory and Cloudcroft Observatory, about 18 mile N of the Sacramento Peak Observatory. When Jerry worked at Cloudcroft it was officially known as Cloudcroft Electro-Optical Research Facility, owned and operated by the U.S. Air Force (USAF) until 1982. At Cloudcroft Observatory Jerry worked with a 1.2-meter reflector. He and a colleague did photometric work on the HST Guidestar Project. It should be mentioned that Jerry and a few others actually did the first work on this project. It was at this point Jerry joined the NWS – where he spent the next 18 years retiring in 1999 in Sioux City, IA.

Most people from Jerry’s past considered Jerry to be a meteorologist. In fact, Jerry was trained in meteorology while in the Air Force. However, almost all his 22+ years in the Air Force was spent in space weather prediction, and all his time after 1999 was spent in astronomy. After retiring from civil service, Jerry immersed himself astronomy in every way he could. In the Astronomical League he held positions of Exec Secretary, V-President, and later 2-yrs as President. Jerry also chaired the ALeague’s 50^th anniversary convention at Copper Mountain in 1997.

Jerry taught astronomy for 14 years at Arapahoe CC and the CC of Aurora. During his time at the CCA he was instrumental in securing the funding, purchasing and constructing an observatory building for the 14” telescope. Jerry also started the bi-annual of what is probably one of the most visible events at the Community College of Aurora, the Sherlin Lecture Series on astronomy and space sciences. Guest lecturers have included the Directors of the Mt Wilson Observatory, Chamberlin & Mt Evan’s Observatory’s, Deputy Project Scientist for Pluto’s New Horizons mission, astrophysicists from CU’s Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics, Space Science Institute, and Southwest Research Institute. The Sherlin Lecture Series has been going for over 10 years now and continues.

Organizations that Jerry belonged to included:

Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (UK)
Professional (full) member of the American Astronomical Society
Listed in Who’s Who in Science & Engineering
Am Assoc for the Advancement Science
Am Assoc Variable Star Observers
Assoc of Lunar & Planetary Observers and
Denver Astronomical Society

Registration Closed for Holiday Banquet

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 19:14:25 GMT

Registrations for the Holiday Banquet are no longer being accepted, as today (Dec. 10) is our deadline to get final attendance numbers (a record - 95!) to Embassy Suites. If you've missed this one, be sure to sign up for the Spring Banquet, scheduled for Saturday March 23, where awards are presented, officers are inducted, and of course, we have a special guest speaker.

DAS Holiday Banquet

Ed Ladner — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 17:28:14 GMT

Thanks to OVERWHELMING demand, we are are adding significantly more seating for the DAS Holiday Banquet!!

Don't Miss Out - Make Reservations Now!
for this fun, informative and tasty event -- only $25 per person!

Holiday Banquet almost sold out.

Ed Ladner — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 18:58:20 GMT

What a great response in people wanting to attend the Holiday Banquet on Dec 16th!

We've added another table, opening up 8 more seats, so those of you who thought we were sold out are in luck.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone there.

Holiday Banquet Registration cutoff is coming!

Ed Ladner — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 21:32:21 GMT

In order to get everyone a good quality dinner at the price we are able to deliver, we have a cutoff date with the hotel.

This cutoff date is Dec 9th for online registration and payment, and Dec 6 for check payments to the Treasurer.

If you are interested in attending, we still have some seating available, so please sign up soon!

Holiday Banquet Registration is open

Ed Ladner — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 02:18:16 GMT

The Holiday Banquet registration is now open for portal members.

Online registrations are open until Dec 9th.

Please click here to go to the Event Registration!

https://members.denverastro.org/events?EventViewMode=1&EventListViewMode=1

Have Questions? See the FAQ!

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 18:51:13 GMT

We have put together a Frequently Asked Questions page that should address most major questions or stumbling blocks with the new member portal.

If, after reading the FAQ, you still have an issue or question, please post in the Member Portal Support forum.

New "About Me" field on your member profile

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 03:48:03 GMT

There is a new field in your member profile labeled "About Me" that is a chance to tell others about yourself, your interests, and what you'd like to learn in the DAS.

This field appears in the member directory list (under the heading Interests), and is intended to help you identify and connect with other members who share similar interests.

To add your About Me information:

Click on your name in the top-right (or the login link if you are not logged in) and select the Edit Profile button.
Scroll down to the About Me text box, and enter information about your interests that you would like to share with other DAS members.
When you have finished making changes to your profile, scroll all the way to the bottom of the page, and click Save.

Font Size updates to forums

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 01:41:12 GMT

We have updated the font size default for the forums. This should be more readable now. Other pages will be updated for larger font sizes as we go.