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.

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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Our education team is growing!

We are excited to announce that we are hiring an education specialist to support our growing education and outreach offerings at Yerkes! This position offers a rare opportunity for the right candidate to make their mark on one of the iconic institutions and landscapes in the history of science. One of the major goals of…

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2025 International Observe the Moon Night Open House

This event is sold out. Join us for our final open house of 2025 on Saturday, October 4 from 6pm – 8pm! We are celebrating International Observe the Moon Night, which is an annual world-wide program that encourages observation, appreciation, and understanding of our Moon and its connection to NASA planetary science and exploration. We’re…

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2025 Perseids Meteor Shower Open House

Join us for our yearly Perseids Meteor Shower open house on Friday, August 15 from 7:30pm – 9:30pm! We’re thrilled to be joined by our friends at Lake County Astronomical Society and Adler Planetarium, who are volunteering their time to provide observing outside on our South Lawn if clear and hands-on activities inside the building….

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