Explore Scientific and the Explore Alliance at ALCon 2024: Stars and All That Jazz!

We are thrilled to announce that Explore Scientific and the Explore Alliance is at the 2024 Astronomical League Convention (ALCon 2024), celebrating the Astronomical Society of Kansas City's (ASKC) 100th anniversary! As the official host for this year’s convention, the excitement is sky-high as we prepare to gather in the vibrant Kansas City area this July.

Join Us at ALCon 2024!

There is still time to attend the 2024 ALCON with tickets at the entrance. This year’s theme, "Stars and All That Jazz," promises an unforgettable blend of astronomy and the rich musical heritage of Kansas City. The convention will feature an array of daily activities and exceptional evening events at iconic local venues.

Streaming Live Interviews

Explore Scientific's own Kent Marts and Scott Roberts will be streaming live interviews with the speakers and other notable attendees of ALCon 2024. Don’t miss out—tune in at Explore Scientific's ALCon 2024 page.You can also search the Astronomical League's facebook page to watch and comment live. But if you miss the livestreams, you can watch them here:

Evening Events to Look Forward To

Gottlieb Planetarium, Union Station

• Private Presentation: Experience a captivating private presentation at the Gottlieb Planetarium located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. This state-of-the-art facility promises an immersive journey through the cosmos.

Linda Hall Library

 

• Guest Speaker David Levy: Renowned astronomer David Levy will share his insights and experiences.
• Rare Book Room Visit: Explore the library’s rare book room, home to some of the most significant works in scientific history, including two extant copies of Galileo’s Siderius Nuncius (1610).

Powell Observatory

• Presentation by Rachel Cionitti: ASKC member and astronomy student Rachel Cionitti will deliver an engaging presentation.
• Stargazing with the 30-inch Ruisinger Telescope: Weather permitting, gaze at the stars through Powell Observatory's impressive 30-inch Ruisinger Telescope.
• StarBQ Dinner at Overland Park Arboretum: Prior to the observatory visit, enjoy a delicious StarBQ dinner featuring local Kansas City-style BBQ at the scenic Overland Park Arboretum.
• Official Website

Banquet Highlights

Banquet and Local Jazz Band

• Keynote by Stephon Alexander: Enjoy a banquet accompanied by a live local jazz band. Brown University professor of physics and astronomy, and jazz musician, Stephon Alexander will discuss his latest book, The Jazz of Physics, blending the rhythms of jazz with the wonders of the universe.
• Awards ceremony

We invite you to join us for an extraordinary celebration of astronomy and jazz at ALCon 2024. Mark your calendars and prepare for a stellar experience in the heart of Kansas City.