The next NACAA (National Australian Convention of Amateur Astronomers) is being held over Easter 2008. Being a national event I thought it was quite appropriate to use IIS as a vehicle to inform you about NACAA and I want to thank Mike for his support.
This conference has been held biennially going back to the 1960s. Traditionally, different societies from all over Australia have taken turns at hosting NACAA. In 2008 it is coming back to Sydney, to the western suburb of Penrith (Panthers convention centre).
The majority of presentations at such events are by amateurs (such as you) and generally reflects their interests or work. These talks cover many facets of astronomy and include the needs of beginners up to areas where the amateur can contribute to professional work (for more info see the recent ‘Pro-Am’ thread). There will also be at least a couple of key note presentations by professional astronomers.
Another activity will be workshops (separate to the main convention). For example, Mike S has shown interest in running one on webcam imaging/processing. I believe this format is ideal for those wishing to learn more about the various forms of electronic imaging and computer processing. Examples of other workshops in the past have been lunar and minor planet occultations and lunar eclipses (crater timings).
There are also plenty of opportunities to socialize, including the convention dinner. At this dinner a representative of the ASA (Astronomical Society of Australia) normally presents the Berenice Page Medal for Amateur contributions to astronomy. The list of past recipients is really a who’s who of prominent Australian amateurs – many of them are still regular attendees to NACAAs.
The last NACAA in 2006 was held in Frankston, Victoria and hosted by the MPAS (Mornington Peninsular Astronomical Society). They have an excellent, comprehensive website and I recommend anyone who hasn’t attended a NACAA to check it out:
www.nacaa.org.au
Besides encouraging people to attend (my main objective!), I would like to hear from:
* Anyone who would like to make a presentation (I would be more than happy to pass on abstracts to the programme committee).
* Any potential sponsors. There are a number of generous organizations that have contributed over the years and will continue to assist in 2008, but we are always looking for more.
* Anyone who might be able to assist (mostly local residents).
Being part of the local organizing committee and convener for 2008 I would be happy to respond to any questions – either on this thread or PM.
There is a lot to do and I’ll use this thread to post updates as they come to hand.
Regards
Glenn Dawes