Denver Astronomical Society 75th anniversary milestones

The Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) celebrates 75 years of fostering a love for astronomy in the community. Since its founding in 1949, DAS has grown significantly, hosting popular public events and contributing to astronomical advancements. Highlights from its history include the establishment of the Van Nattan-Hansen-Anderson Scholarship Fund, the renaming of the DAS Dark Site to honor Darrell Dodge, and numerous public outreach efforts. As DAS marks this milestone, it continues to engage and inspire future generations of astronomers.

The Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) 75th anniversary milestones

2024 – Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) has been engaging the public with astronomy for 75 years. With over 1000 memberships and nearly 1200 members, DAS hosts events like Open Houses and Public Nights, drawing thousands of attendees, especially during significant astronomical events.

2022 – The DAS Dark Site was renamed the Kline-Dodge Dark Site in recognition of Darrell Dodge's dedication. The change was officially announced at the DAS Holiday Banquet in December 2022.

2014 – DAS introduced the Bill Ormsby Memorial Volunteer Award, recognizing outstanding volunteer contributions. The first recipient was Darrell Dodge, honored for his significant efforts.

2010 – The 20-inch Clark refractor’s objective lens at Chamberlin Observatory was removed, cleaned, measured, and reinstalled. The project was overseen by Chris Ray and involved several DAS members and experts.

2008 – Neil Pearson received the Astronomical League’s Jack Horkheimer Award for exceptional service by a young astronomer.

2006 – DAS secured a $199,585 state historical grant for Chamberlin Observatory’s restoration.

2003 (March) – Larry Brooks was named President Emeritus posthumously, recognizing his leadership and contributions, which helped grow DAS from 167 to 350 members during his tenure.

2000 (July) – Jack Eastman was named Chief Observer. Later that year, the Denver Sky Show, cosponsored by DAS and Astronomy Magazine, was canceled due to weather.

2000 (spring) – Initial infrastructure, including concrete pads, electricity, and a vault toilet, was established at the DAS Deer Trail Dark Site. It was later named the Edmund G. Kline Dark Sky Site after Ed Kline’s passing.

1996 (October) – The DAS Executive Board began searching for a dark site, leading to the lease of the current site near Deer Trail, CO, in February 1998.

1993 – DAS started monthly first-quarter star parties at Chamberlin Observatory, now known as “Open House,” where the public can observe through member telescopes.

1894 to present – Public Night events have been held at Chamberlin Observatory since the first light for the 20-inch Clark refractor. DAS continues to host these popular events twice a week.

1980 – DAS helped get Chamberlin Observatory listed on the National Register of Historic Places, coinciding with the first National Astronomy Day.

1973 – The Van Nattan-Hansen Scholarship Fund was created to honor William Van Nattan and Charles Hansen. It was later renamed to include John Anderson. The fund has supported at least 30 students with over $48,000 in scholarships.

1957 – The Denver Moonwatch team, funded by a $1000 grant, was established to observe satellites. They were among the first to spot the Soviet Sputnik satellite.

1955 – DAS helped plan and operate the first planetarium at the Denver Museum of Natural History.

1954 (April 19) – DAS filed Articles of Incorporation to bring together astronomy enthusiasts and improve their observational skills, establishing formal goals for the organization.

1951 – The club was renamed the Denver Astronomical Society, with about 30 active members.

1949 – The club was founded as the Denver Telescope Maker’s Club, with meetings held at the Denver Museum of Natural History and Chamberlin Observatory.

View the press release here