News

Want to Know What's Happening Here?

As Yerkes has become a space at the confluence of culture, art, and science, we have so much going on. From our speaker series to our roster of tours to our star parties, keep up to date by getting on our email list, following us on social media, and visiting us in person. We're forever evolving into a place of diverse programs for kids and adults alike. Writers, artists, sculptors, photographers, musicians, engineers, chemists, tech innovators, and astronomers are collaborating to understand how science inspires the arts and how the arts inspire cosmic discovery. We're eager to work together at this epicenter of BIG IDEAS. What was a dormant institution a couple years ago and a construction site under full restoration just last year is now a vibrant place filled with enthusiasm, focus, and new voices in conversation. Discover what’s happening in Cobb & Hale's three domes and the junction of Olmsted ellipses. More importantly, discover how you can tap into the energy.

Yerkes Candlelight Walk 2026

It’s the Yerkes’ Annual Candlelight Walk through 2,000 candles! Friday, October 23rd & Saturday, 24th from 7-9:30 pm. Our wild yet manicured 50-acre Olmsted arboretum will be illuminated like an autumnal constellation. Discover the wonders of nature and enjoy an unforgettable night beneath the stars. Free shuttle to & from WB School. Fun, educational stations…

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People standing behind a telescope pointed at the night sky and illuminated in red light.

Exploring the Night Sky with the 24″ Reflector

Thanks to the generosity of The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, our Great Refractor telescope, The Sharon and Charles Angell Historic Refractor, will be undergoing some long-awaited maintenance in preparation for restoration in October and November of this year. While the Refractor is out of commission, we are excited to welcome the public for a…

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Wonders of Physics Open House

Join us at Yerkes for a special open house experience on Friday, July 31 from 6pm – 8pm! We’re pleased to welcome The Wonders of Physics outreach team from the UW-Madison Department of Physics, where they’ll be providing a family friendly and engaging physics demonstration show to kick off the evening. Following the Wonders of…

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Save the Date for our Fall Fundraiser

Interested in sponsoring this event? Click here for more information.

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An image of a comet streaking from right to left across a dark sky

Meet the Shell in the Sky Artists!

Yerkes is honored to introduce you to the distinguished Anishinaabe elders, artists, cultural teachers, authors, and knowledge keepers featured in our newest exhibit: A Shell in the Sky | Midewigaan Miigis! Curated by Noelia Cruz in collaboration with the artists, this exhibit invites all to immerse themselves in Ojibwe, Bodéwadmi, and Odawa art, STEM, and cultural teachings…

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