California dreaming (about astronomy)

I just returned from Pasadena, California, after spending the weekend at the Pacific Astronomy and Telescope Show (PATS). This manufacturers’ show was a success on three levels: First, it gave lots of visitors the chance to look at and discuss the latest astronomy gear. The newest telescopes, mounts, cameras, eyepieces, and accessories were all on display. And each booth had up to half a dozen staff members ready and eager to impart their knowledge to interested visitors.

Second, on Saturday night, September 18, I participated in the first International Observe the Moon Night (InOMN). This now annual event, originated by NASA, is for people curious about our satellite who would like to find out more about it. I helped host the Pasadena event with other participants of PATS. One of the manufacturers set up a telescope for me, and I chatted with several hundred excited visitors about the waxing gibbous Moon.

The group Astronomers Without Borders (AWB), whose mission is to foster understanding and goodwill across national and cultural boundaries, also helped with InOMN. During the event, AWB shot lots of video footage. You can see the result at the AWB website.

The third way PATS proved a success is that I represented Astronomy magazine during several meetings of the Astronomy Outreach Foundation (AOF), a new non-profit group made up of astronomy manufacturers, and of which Astronomy magazine is a founding member.

The vision of AOF includes introducing many people to astronomy, showing them how easy it is to see celestial objects, helping them choose equipment and learn to use it, and lots more.

“I look at the foundation as a service organization,” says Vic Maris, the AOF’s president. “We’re here to help amateur astronomers, astronomy clubs, and teachers.”

Brian Deis, the AOF’s vice president, adds, “Because every founding member put up some money, we’re already funded. That’s a big advantage, and it lets us hit the ground running.”

The next AOF event is the National Engineering and Science Festival in Washington, D.C., October 23–24. The foundation will staff a booth and host a star party.

Indeed, this year PATS was about more than equipment — much more.