This weekend, I’ll attend the Pacific Astronomy and Telescope Show (PATS) in Pasadena, California. This promises to be a biggie, and I’m looking forward to seeing the latest telescopes, eyepieces, and accessories. Many of Astronomy magazine’s contributors also will be there, and I’m looking forward to seeing them all.

Until now, most large equipment shows — like the NorthEast Astronomy Forum (NEAF) — have occurred on the East Coast. One exception happens each Memorial Day weekend. At that time, amateur astronomers gather for the Riverside Telescope Makers Conference (RTMC).

This weekend PATS kicks off with its inaugural show. And I’ll be there to share what happens. Watch for my updates and pictures from PATS at Astronomy.com's blogs in the next few days.

Editor's note: Michael's on his way to Pasadena now. We'll post his PATS updates as soon as we get them throughout the weekend.