Public Schedule

Events at Ashton Observatory

Our open season at Ashton Observatory normally runs from April through October. We are glad to report that beginning Saturday July 9, 2022, Ashton Observatory will cautiously begin hosting visitors again for outdoor viewing after being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This will be for outside viewing only - the Observatory and its domes will not be open yet at this time.

In a normal year, Saturday public nights at Ashton Observatory are every Saturday evening, April through October. Except for first Saturdays of each month, most evenings begin with a classroom program at 8:00 pm. Free admission! All ages welcome.

To download a PDF file of our season schedule, click the link below.

Off-campus events

Sometimes DMAS members may visit other locations and present astronomy programs or share information about astronomy and the Des Moines Astronomical Society. Libraries and schools are some examples. DMAS may occasionally appear at farmers markets too.