Astronomical Events of Interest
Listed below is a schedule of astronomical events sponsored by AAL or other amateur groups within the region. For AAL-sponsored events, you are encouraged to check our Facebook page for the most recent updates regarding the event. A link to the Clear Sky Chart predictions for Lawrence is supplied below - this allows you to see what the likelihood is for clear skies over the coming few days. We also list below the Sky and Telescope weekly Sky at a Glance to provide some insight into what is visible at night during the coming week.
Special Event to Celebrate the Discovery of Pluto - Lawrence Public Library
AAL EVENTS & MEETINGS
All of our activities are open to the public. Please join us, everyone is welcome. Check our Facebook page for the latest news and updates
AAL MONTHLY MEETINGS
SUNDAY February 22, 2026
Dr. Brian Thomas, Washburn University
Terrestrial Effects of Nearby Supernovae
&
Gamma Ray Bursts
SUNDAY March 29, 2026
Rick Heschmeyer, AAL
The Useful Stars: The Night Sky as Calendar,
Navigational Aid,
and
Cultural Repository
Monthly meetings during the school year take place at the
Baker Wetlands Discovery Center (BWDC). Meetings will begin at 7:00 PM.
TELESCOPE
&
PLANETARIUM NIGHTS AT KU
THURSDAY - February 12
- March 12
- April 16
- May 7
Join KU astronomers for an evening of observing planets and the moon through telescopes and watching a variety of shows in the
Planetarium in Slawson Hall - G174.
Observation is available at 7:30 p.m. just outside of Slawson to the south of the building.
Planetarium Shows start at 7:30 p.m., 8:00 p.m and 8:30 p.m.
in G174 - Slawson Hall
Bookmark the link to stay up to date with weather-related changes!
https://physics.ku.edu/astronomy-public-telescope-nights
Note: Planetarium shows occur even if the outdoor observing is cancelled due to weather
KU Public Telescope and Planetarium Schedule
PUBLIC OBSERVING SESSIONS (2026)
(Weather Permitting)
POST AAL MONTHLY MEETING
BAKER WETLANDS DISCOVERY CENTER
SUNDAY February 22, 2026 ~ 8:00 PM
SUNDAY March 29, 2026 ~ 8:00 PM
Entrance to Baker Wetlands Discovery Center
Clamshell Dome of 14-inch Celestron at BWDC
Celestial Event of Interest - Lunar Eclipse 2024