ALCon/AstroCon Observing Challenges

ALCon Observing Challenges Coordinator:

Cliff Mygatt
P.O. Box 8607
Port Orchard, WA 98366
360-265-5418
cliffandchris@wavecable.com

Introduction

At some Astronomical League Conventions (ALCons) participants are encouraged to pursue an observing challenge.  This is not done at every ALCon but is done for special occasions.

Requirements and Rules

To earn the certification, you need to meet these requirements:

  • Observe the required object(s)
  • Submit your observations to the coordinator at the ALCon.
  • The deadline for submitting to meet this challenge is at the ALCon.  No additional observations are accepted.

The certificates, which are suitable for framing, will be emailed to you upon completion of the Challenge and submission to the Coordinator and may be printed by you.

The AL Observing Challenges

Current Challenges:

2. 2025 AstroCon Observing Challenge – Bryce Canyon, June 25 through June 28, 2025

There are a total of 52 objects on the list.  These awards can be earned:

  • 20 Objects Viewed: Bronze Certificate
  • 30 Objects Viewed: Silver Certificate
  • 42 Objects Viewed: Gold Certificate
  • 50 Objects Viewed: Starhoppers Certificate

The list of objects will be in the Observing Guide and Logbook, which was available up at the AstroCon Information Desk at the conference.
To receive any of the award certificates, you may view any of the objects among the 52 listed.

Requirements:

  • This Observing Challenge is ONLY available to people registered for the AstroCon 2025 at Bryce Cnayon.
  • Due to the smoke in Bryce Canyon, the Challenge has been extended.  Observations Must be done between June 25 and July 31, 2025.
  • Observations for the Challenge must be received by the COordinator before August 31, 2025.
  • Star-hopping, setting circles, and go-to mounts: all methods of observation are acceptable.
  • Friends and acquaintances may cooperate.  You do not need to be a member of the AL to participate.
  • Viewing the objects and observing detail is paramount.
  • Use the Observation Guide and Logbook to record what you see.
  • Submission to the Coordinator consists of;
    • Your name
    • Your email address
    • Your astronomical society.  This includes: Lifetime Member, Member-at-Large, or None.
    • Number of objects observed
The original plan:  You have Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights to find the objects. These may be viewed from the Public Star Party viewing site or at the Private Star Party location at Rainbow Point.  This has been extended to a final deadline of 7/31/2025 and may be completed at any location.

Award certificates will be presented at the Gala Awards Banquet or emailed to the participants.
Sky & Telescope Pocket Atlas page numbers were referenced for each object.
A .skylist attachment is available for downloading the list into the SkySafari app.

For details on the requirements for prior awards, click here.

ALCon Observing Challenges Coordinator:

Cliff Mygatt
P.O. Box 8607
Port Orchard, WA 98366
360-265-5418
cliffandchris@wavecable.com
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