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.

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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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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An outdoor space-themed sculpture with Yerkes Observatory in the background.

Exploring Art @ Yerkes Open House

This event is sold out! Yerkes is excited to welcome all for a celebration and exploration of art at our next open house on Thursday, May 21 from 6pm – 8pm! Join us for a chance to connect with local artists Neal Aspinall and Suzanne Bucher, learn new artistic techniques, hear music in the dome,…

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2026 Messier Marathon Open House

This event is sold out! Join us for our yearly Messier Marathon open house on Friday, March 13 from 8pm – 10pm! We’re thrilled to once again partner with the Milwaukee Astronomical Society, where they’ll provide an educational presentation about Messier objects and marathons, hands-on educational activities, and Messier observing outside on the South lawn…

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Yerkes Observatory at night with the shutter open and a starry sky in the background

Yerkes in 2025

2025 was a truly remarkable year at Yerkes. We reached exciting new milestones across our programs, expanded the scope and impact of our science and education initiatives, and continued the careful restoration of our historic building and surrounding grounds. Together, these efforts reflect a year defined by discovery, stewardship, and meaningful community engagement. Watch our…

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