Minnesota Astronomical Society
The Onan Observatory Sign, seen in 2025 | |
| Formation | November 21, 1972 |
|---|---|
| Founded at | Science Museum of Minnesota |
| Type | Nonprofit astronomical society |
| 501(c)(3) | |
| Purpose | Education, Amateur Astronomy |
| Location |
|
Region served | Minnesota |
| Fields | Astronomy |
| Membership | 650+[1] (2026) |
President | Valts Treibergs |
Vice President | John Zimitsch |
Secretary | Claire Weaverling |
Treasurer | Noha Reda |
Publication | Gemini |
| Website | www |
Formerly called | Twin Cities Astronomical Society |
The Minnesota Astronomical Society (MAS) is a non-profit astronomical society based in Minnesota. It is one of only two astronomical societies based in the state, the other being the Rochester Astronomy Club.[2]
History
It began as an association of 3M employees who formed a company astronomy club. In 1972, it broke off and became an independent organization under the name 'Twin Cities Astronomy Club'. The name was changed to 'Minnesota Astronomical Society' in 1980.[3] The MAS opened their first permanent location to the public, Eagle Lake Observatory, in 2000. In 2021, membership was reported as greater than 450.[4] In 2026, Membership had grown to over 650.[1]
Locations
The MAS operates three observatories. The first, and oldest, is Eagle Lake Observatory. It is located at Baylor Regional Park, in Camden Township. The nearest town is Norwood Young America, to the south. The observatory contains three buildings; the Onan Observatory, the Sylvia A. Casby Observatory, and the HotSpot Classroom.[5] The first two hosted their first star party in 2000, while the classroom opened in 2013.[6]
The Cherry Grove Observatory, near Kenyon, MN, was next opened and became the MAS's first dedicated dark-sky site.[7] The Joseph J Casby Observatory, in Afton, MN, opened in 2010.[8]
The MAS also owns land they use for events in Palisade, MN and West Lakeland Township, MN.[9][10]
References
- ^ a b "mnastro home page". Retrieved March 4, 2026.
- ^ "Rochester Astronomy Club – Rochester Astronomy Club, Rochester, Minnesota".
- ^ Grigus, Audra (29 September 2022). "The Minnesota Astronomical Society celebrates 50 years". Chanhassen Villager.
- ^ "Member Benefits - Minnesota Astronomical Society". 4 May 2021.
- ^ "Eagle Lake Observatory". Carver County, Minnesota.
- ^ "Eagle Lake Observatory - Minnesota Astronomical Society". 4 May 2021.
- ^ "Cherry Grove Observatory - Minnesota Astronomical Society". 7 July 2021.
- ^ "Joseph J. Casby Observatory - Minnesota Astronomical Society". 4 May 2021.
- ^ "Facilities - Minnesota Astronomical Society". 28 April 2021.
- ^ "Minnesota Astronomical Society". Night Sky Network.