A Total Eclipse of the Sun

A total eclipse of the Sun has to be one of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring events of the natural world.  We see dozens of pictures of these eclipses in the news and on the web, but for those who witness a total eclipse, it is – AN EXPERIENCE.  You can feel the shadow approaching. The wildlife becomes quiet.  The temperature drops.  The light becomes ghostly and strange.  Then an eerie darkness engulfs you.  You feel awe and anxiety all at the same time.  You literally feel the shadow.  You are living the experience of a total solar eclipse. 

To help celebrate the total eclipse of the sun on Monday, August 21st, 2017, the Astronomica League will hold its annual national convention in the days leading up to the event.  Casper Wyoming will host the conference as the eclipse path goes right through the city.  
 

The Astronomical League was organized on November 15, 1946 under the leadership of Dr. Harlow Shapley.  At present, the Astronomical League is a federation of 280+ astronomical societies throughout the United States and several foreign countries.  It is one of the largest general astronomical organizations in the world. 
 

National Conventions take place yearly in various locations throughout the country over a four-day period starting on Wednesday and ending with an awards banquet on Saturday. There are lectures/presentations and workshops scheduled mornings and afternoons each day, astronomy related tours of nearby facilities, and a vendor area.  These conventions provide a unique opportunity for professional astronomers to intermingle with knowledgeable amateurs; gathering together to learn from each other and exchange ideas.

ASTROCON 2017 (Astronomical Convention) will be held at the Parkway Plaza Hotel Convention Centre in Casper, Wyoming, Wednesday, August 16th through Saturday, August 19th, 2017.  In addition to the lectures/presentations and workshops, are social events: the Star-B-Q and Gala Awards Banquet including a special keynote speaker.  Well-known vendors will also be on hand to display a multitude of astronomical products and provide expert advice. 

The public will be invited to visit the vendor displays the full length of the convention.  Vendor representatives and other astronomy enthusiasts will be available to answer questions on many astronomical topics, especially how to best experience a total eclipse of the sun.

Lowell Lyon, ASTROCON 2017 Chair   bolide@sisna.com
Astronomical League Website,  www.astroleague.org
ASTROCON 2017 Website,  http://astrocon2017.astroleague.org
National Convention of the Astronomical League - August 16-19, 2017 - Casper, Wyoming 
ASTROCON 2017, P.O. Box 901631, Sandy, UT  84090-1631