April 2010

Member Jack Szelka will present a Powerpoint presentation highlighting a visit to the Adler Planetarium in Chicago, Illinois and Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. He will cover some of the astronomical exhibits at the Adler; the Telescope display, Atwood Sphere and the other astronomy related displays.

Also presented, a tour of the Yerkes Observatory including highlights of the buildings, equipment and history of the many great astronomers who have worked there. The main feature is the worlds largest refractor, the 40-inch Alvan Clark lens and a night of viewing with this scope.

Dave Huestis, a Skyscrapers member since 1975 and the society’s historian for many years, will be presenting a talk to commemorate the sesquicentennial birthday (March 29, 2010) of Frank Evans Seagrave (1860-1934). 

Skyscrapers purchased Frank’s observatory and 8¼-inch Alvan Clark refractor on Peeptoad Road back in 1936. Dave will reveal some important facts that he has uncovered from his continued research into Frank Seagrave’s life and achievements. He also promises a few surprises.