The Astroleague 2008 conference/expo is now in progress. Brian Butcher, president of the Des Moines Astronomical Society, welcomed participants to the conference this morning. 

Our enthusiastic thanks to the host committee whose many, many hours of work has produced a wonderful event. This years conference has three tracks giving participants a great set of topics and fascinating speakers from which to choose.

Last evening the Concil tour featured a visit to the Science Center of Iowa and a trip to the Drake Municipal Observatory.

Tonight the conference participants will be treated to a picnic dinner at the Ashton Observatory. The weather at the moment looks “iffy” but Brian has reassured us that  they have a large tent to protect from the rain.  Irregardless of the weather I’m sure everyone will have a great time! 

Update 7/19 – it stopped raining, the sky cleared, and the evening turned out to be beautiful.  The star picnic was a fun event and all present had a great time!