Citizen Sky Workshop to Produce a DSLR Photometry Manual

The Citizen Sky Project - Workshop III

Sponsored by:
The National Science Foundation and
The American Association of Variable Star Observers

When and Where:

The 3rd Citizen Sky Project Workshop will be held Friday-Sunday, March 22-24 at AAVSO Headquarters in Cambridge, MA.  We will kick-off the 3-day workshop with a meet-and-greet the evening of Thursday, March 21st. 

Goals and Structure:

The goal of this workshop will be to produce a Manual for DSLR Photometry.  The materials that already exists for training in DSLR photometry are few and far between -- and not necessarily written for the entry-level user. Our goal is to develop an easy to use, introductory manual so that we can effectively support observers who are interested in giving DSLR photometry a try.

Our days will be filled with a mix of 1) talks by experienced DSLR photometrists and 2) breakout sessions during which small groups of participants (each with a designated leader) will develop preassigned sections of the manual.  These small groups will be determined well in advance and will be based on participant interest, experience and skills.  No prior DSLR experience is required at the time of application but there will be some pre-workshop reading and preparation required.  This pre-workshop "homework" will be based on the participant's small group topics.

Expenses and Funding:

There is no registration fee for this workshop.  A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided daily. Dinner is not provided.  Participants will also be responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses.  A block of hotel rooms has been secured at the Best Western Tria -- a hotel within walking distance of the AAVSO.  The group rate is $139 per night plus 14.45% tax.  We will provide roommate matching assistance for those who wish to economize by sharing a room.  For those wishing to search for lower priced accommodations, we have put together some resources on area B&Bs, etc.

Workshop travel grants will be available to help offset travel and accommodation expenses.  These grants are available for individuals who commit to spreading the word about this project in their local communities (a requirement of the NSF funding).  Most of the grants will be $500 but some larger grants will be given for those traveling long distances.

Application:

The application process is open to the public. We welcome all with experience or interest in DSLR photometry and/or manual writing.  If you are interested in attending this workshop, please complete the application linked below by December 31, 2012 for consideration in the first round of participant selection.  Individuals applying by December 31st will be contacted with results by January 8, 2013.

Applications received after December 31, 2012 will be considered to fill any remaining slots or added to a waitlist. Those applying after December 31st will be contacted within 1 week of application.

Workshop Application