The June 2026 meeting of the Chicago Astronomical Society will be on
Saturday, June 20, 2026
at the
Cernan Earth and Space Center.
Please note the schedule so you won't be late for pizza!
Meeting Agenda:
4:00 PM -- Weather permitting, we will have 'scopes set up for solar viewing
5:00 PM -- Astro-talk over pizza and soft drinks. (Donations are welcome to offset the cost of food and beverage.)
6:00 PM -- The lecture will begin.
7:30 PM -- Weather permitting, we will have telescopes set up to view the Moon, Jupiter and Venus.
Speaker: Mr. Andy Weeks
Topic: From Chicago to the Mountaintop: George Ellery Hale and the Story of Mount Wilson Observatory
About the Presentation:
This presentation traces the history of Mount Wilson Observatory, opening with its Chicago roots:
George Ellery Hale's path from the University of Chicago and Yerkes Observatory to founding Mount Wilson in
1904. It then follows the observatory's rise, pioneering solar work, the 60-inch telescope, and the
landmark 100-inch Hooker, through discoveries that reshaped cosmology, including Shapley's mapping of our
galaxy and Hubble's evidence for an expanding universe. It closes with Mount Wilson today, still home to the
largest telescopes open to public use, illustrated with photos from a recent personal visit.
Q & A welcome throughout
Visit Mount Wilson Observatory
About our Speaker:
For more than a decade Andy has been a driving force in the Fox Valley Astronomical Society, shaping its outreach
and leadership. As newsletter editor for nearly ten years, he curated engaging content that kept members informed
and inspired. His vision extended to the digital realm, where he spearheaded the creation of the society's first
website, ensuring a lasting online presence. Serving as President for approximately seven years, Andy helped guide
the organization's mission and foster a passionate community of stargazers. His commitment to education has led to
dozens of presentations for park districts and schools, sharing his expertise on astronomy and the pressing issue
of light pollution.
In addition to Andy's Fox Valley Astronomical Societies responsibilities, he is a dedicated astrophotographer who
enjoys capturing images of celestial objects. Over the years, he has worked with various techniques to photograph
galaxies, nebulae, and planets, learning how to balance technical settings with composition. His approach to
astrophotography focuses on long-exposure imaging and deep - sky observation, allowing them to document astronomical
events and share their findings with fellow enthusiasts. While not necessarily seeking recognition, Andy
participates in astronomy communities, offering insights and occasionally guiding newcomers.
Andy has recently retired from the Chief Security Office of a fortune 100 company.
You can view his images at
“AstrophotoAndy.space,”
Looking Ahead: The July meeting of the Chicago Astronomical Society (CAS) will be on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at the Cernan Earth and Space Center at 5:00 Event Calendar
Membership: If you enjoy the activities of the CAS, please become a member.
Regular membership is only $30 for an individual and $50 for a family membership.
We now accept payment via Zelle.
We would like to thank the Cernan Center and its director Kris McCall for their support of the CAS and astronomy/science education. We encourage CAS members and all others who support science education to purchase memberships for the Cernan Center.
We would also like to thank our members for their past and continued support.
We hope that you can attend. Please feel free to forward and invite friends!
Clear Skies!
Tony Harris
V.P. and Program Manager,
Chicago Astronomical Society
