Affiliation
American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO)
Sun, 01/03/2016 - 18:02
Greetings from Florida! The AAVSO council is well represented at the American Astronomical Society meeting, with the Director, President, 2nd VP, Secretary, and at least one other councilor in attendence. For any members attending this week I would love to share a cup of coffee with you if you have the time. Just email me: larsen@ccsu.edu
Director Stella Kafka and I have been pressing the flesh and promoting the organization every chance we get. I spoke to all those presenting variable star posters yesterday (expecially students) to make sure they were aware of the AAVSO and what we can offer to professionals and students. I got some very nice feedback such as "I use VPHOT" and "AAVSO data has been my lifeline." Hopefully it will translate into a new member or two and some new collaborations.
Today I presented my poster summarizing projects done by my students using VSX and VStar. Again. I got some great feedback about the organization from people (and convinced a lapsed member to pay her dues!). I have enclosed a copy of my poster (and the great AAVSO bag I also am using to promote us).
It looks like you are doing a great job promoting the AAVSO. Keep up the good work!
One of my AAS highlights was giving a talk at the Society of Physics Students (SPS) special event, promoting the AAVSO and its activities. It is always a pleasure talking to brilliant science-oriented students who are eager to learn more on how to get involved in scientific research. Our future observers are among members of these groups, and I am grateful that the AAS provides opportunities for interacting with them.
Best wishes - clear skies,
Stella.
Thanks to Stella, Kristine, Gary and many others, AAVSO had a lot of visibility with the professional astronomers at the AAS meeting this past week...well done to all for being there and promoting our organization (AAVSO!).
Kev.