A new Stellar Evolution Manual is now available in the AL Store.

We hope you will join us by participating in the latest AL Observing Challenge:  The scutum Star Cloud Buffet.  Details can be found on the web page:

https://www.astroleague.org/al-observing-challenge-special-observing-award/

Two levels, 14 objects (silver) and 29 objects (gold).  Observe during September and submit by October 31, 2026.

We are excited to announce that at a recent AL Council Meeting, the Council approved the adoption of some changes in our Observing Programs.  The web pages are still being updated, please be patient.  The pins are on order and have not arrived yet.

Bambury – This is now a complete Observing Program, and includes a pin for 100 observations.  There is also a “Complete” certificate for those who did all 600.  If you already completed the 600, you will be getting a pin from the Coordinator.

For Your Eyes Only Observing Award – There is now a pin for this accomplishment.  If you have already earned this award, you will be getting a pin from the Coordinator.

Herschel Society (silver and gold) Awards – There is now a pin for these accomplishments.  If you have already earned this award, you will be getting a pin from the Coordinator.

Master Observer – Triple Crown Award – There is now a pin for this accomplishment.  If you have already earned this award, you will be getting a pin from the Coordinator.

Exoplanet Transit Observing Program – This is a newly adopted Observing Program, complete with pin and certificates.

Aaron Clevenson is the temporary Coordinator for this Observing Program.  We would like to thank Bill Pellerin for his many years in that role.

If you have any questions about submissions, the on-line database entries, or have a new submission, please work with the new Coordinator.  Contact information is on the AL web page:

https://www.astroleague.org/stellar-evolution-observing-program/

The Double Star Observing Program has just released a new list of objects.  It now has 200 to choose from and includes targets available to southern hemisphere observers.  Only 100 are required.  Enjoy.

https://www.astroleague.org/double-star-observing-program/

The end of June is the end of the observing deadline for the M102: “Messier’s Unknown Journey” Observing Challenge.  Get those observations in!

For all the details, scroll down to challenge #16.

https://www.astroleague.org/al-observing-challenge-special-observing-award/

Have you earned your Master Observer Award?  Did you know that the Astronomical League makes plaques for Master Obervers that come to an ALCON?  Some of you have received yours, but if not, then we want you to have one!  All you have to do is come to an ALCON.  Register on-line and be sure to answer the questions at the bottom about Master Observers.  The plaques will be presented at the Awards Ceremony at the ALCON.

We want to be sure that we do not miss you, so please also send an email to me to let me know you will be there.  (Please send me an email even if you have already registered for the ALCON.)  aaron@clevenson.org

We hope to see you there.  Aaron

August 12-15 is the Astronomical League’s national convention (ALCON) in Cincinnati. This is an incredible experience. Check out the flyer to find out why you should attend.   ALCON 2026 – Why Attend

Please join us for this month’s AL Live!

It will be featuring Pranvera Hyseni and till discuss “Chaasing Asteroid Shadows: The Science of Stellar Occultations.”

To view the announcement and see the connectino details, click here:  https://www.astroleague.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AL-LIVE-20260501-scaled.jpg

(4/6/2026)  The Astronomical League’s Observing Program Division is pleased to announce the addition of a new Obesrving Program to our list of offerings:  the Swift Observing Program.  For more information and the requirements, pleasse review the Swift Observing Program web page:  https://www.astroleague.org/swift-observing-program/