Universe in the Park: In-Person Badger Talk at Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo, WI
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This is a free, in-person rain or shine Universe in the Park event hosted on August 15, 2026 at 8:00 PM by Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo, WI. No registration necessary to attend. Please contact The Friends of Mirror Lake State Park website: (https://friendsofmirrorlake.org/) or the park office at 608-254-2333 with weather or cancellation concerns.
A typical UitP session begins just after sunset with a 30-40 minute talk and slide show about astronomy. While particular topics are left up to the presenters, they usually give a broad overview of one or two astronomy topics. Recent astronomical news is frequently discussed, such as the discovery of new solar systems, the demotion of Pluto, and the latest results from the Hubble Space Telescope.
At the conclusion of the talk, weather permitting, we set up a moderate aperture (8″-10″) telescope and provide park visitors the opportunity to view available astronomical objects. UitP sessions run as long as there are people interested in looking through the telescope, and the parks typically close before the interest has been sated.
Though all are welcome, the talk is best suited for ages 8+, and telescope viewing for ages 4+.
Zach Lewis is a graduate student in astronomy at UW-Madison. His research focuses on the evolution of elements inside galaxies. He uses JWST observations of distant galaxies to characterize how stars produce elements and eject them into their host galaxy, and how those elements then escape the galaxy or form new stars.
A typical UitP session begins just after sunset with a 30-40 minute talk and slide show about astronomy. While particular topics are left up to the presenters, they usually give a broad overview of one or two astronomy topics. Recent astronomical news is frequently discussed, such as the discovery of new solar systems, the demotion of Pluto, and the latest results from the Hubble Space Telescope.
At the conclusion of the talk, weather permitting, we set up a moderate aperture (8″-10″) telescope and provide park visitors the opportunity to view available astronomical objects. UitP sessions run as long as there are people interested in looking through the telescope, and the parks typically close before the interest has been sated.
Though all are welcome, the talk is best suited for ages 8+, and telescope viewing for ages 4+.
Zach Lewis is a graduate student in astronomy at UW-Madison. His research focuses on the evolution of elements inside galaxies. He uses JWST observations of distant galaxies to characterize how stars produce elements and eject them into their host galaxy, and how those elements then escape the galaxy or form new stars.
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Where is it happening?
E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913-9341, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherBadger Talks
