Astronomy@250 For Curious Minds

4 hours ago
2 min read

Tell me of an astronomy experience in your life, big or small. How has astronomy intersected your personal life and all that has led up to where we are now as a country? I encourage you to attend the virtual conference Astronomy@250, which celebrates 250 years of astronomy in the United States on August 27-29, 2026.

Hosted by the Astro Society, the Semiquincentennial event "brings together researchers, educators, amateur astronomers, and curious minds from across the community to honor the full, complex, and beautiful story of astronomy in the United States. We’re not just looking to the past 250 years, but to the future as well."

Abstract submissions are now being accepted through June 23, 2026! Conference presentation formats will include 50-minute sessions as either an interactive panel discussion or an interactive workshop. The Astro Society is also accepting submissions for poster presentations. All accepted presentations will be eligible for inclusion in the ASP Conference Proceedings as a record of the conference and a publishing opportunity for those making a presentation.

Conference Themes:

Ancient Skies, New Nation - Astronomy, culture, and knowledge systems at the founding of the United States.
People Who Changed Astronomy - The individuals, communities, and collaborations behind American accomplishments and discovery.
Building the Tools of Discovery - Observatories, technology, and citizen science that change our understanding of the Universe.
The Next 250 Years - Future discoveries, space exploration, and the evolving space economy.
Teaching the Cosmos - Transforming astronomy education for a changing world.

Other cultures have trod this same ground, sailed these same seas, and wondered at the same night sky. Please share your insight into how astronomy has evolved since (and before) the founding of the United States and where we are all heading as we hurl through space. As we reflect on where we've been, together we can choose bold paths going forward.

Please see https://astrosociety.org/events-home/2026-conference-astronomy-250.html to register and submit an abstract.