LAS CRUCES, NM - The largest amateur astronomical organization in the world is having their annual convention, ALCon, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Astronomical League's convention is set for July 5ththrough the 11th of 2015.
The league has 240 astronomical society chapters across the country and its enrollment tops 16,000 plus members. Each year, hundreds of these amateur astronomers convene at their annual convention to speak with their professional peers about space observation and exploration. The convention is an ideal place for them to exchange ideas and interests, learn about new discoveries and technology and voice their opinions about the science of Astronomy.
This annual convention has a long standing tradition dating back to 1939. Last year's event was held in Atlanta. This year's event is set for San Antonio, Texas. It's an illustrious event and Las Cruces organizers are excited about hosting it in 2015. Approximately 600 rooms are reserved at the Hotel Encanto in anticipation of this event.
"There is a lot of history embedded in Las Cruces, Whites Sands and other New Mexico sites when referring to Space exploration and the development of Space observation technology," said Ron Kramer, member of the Astronomical Society of Las Cruces. "Las Cruces is Where Space Began....and the Future Begins."
Kramer and a group of local chapter volunteers are developing all the specific convention details and working closely with the Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau. "The CVB is outstanding in their support of this major event, and it would have been impossible to make it happen without their help," Kramer said. "They explained the details of the Bring it Home campaign and have really made this process quite painless."
The Bring it Home campaign is sponsored by the CVB and rewards citizens for assisting them in securing conventions from local, state or national associations. The campaign was initiated in January and ALCon is the first convention referral reserved under the program.
Las Cruces was a great choice for the Astronomical League's convention. The city offers great amenities, and astronomers and their families look forward to visiting some of Las Cruces' and New Mexico's finest attractions. Some of the sites include Leesburg Dam State Park and Observatory, Spaceport America, Historic Mesilla, White Sands National Monument and the Very Large Array, the world's premier astronomical radio observatory. Astronomers can also enjoy, the city's premium night skies for the best star gazing experience.
Members of the Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers will also be in town with their annual convention, coinciding with ALCon2015.
Please visit astroleague.org for more information.
Information from Las Cruces CVB