Pacific Astronomy and Telescope Show

September 13-14, 2008
Pasadena Convention Center
Pasadena, California

This international conference/exhibition/convention/workshop will become a grand meeting place for amateur astronomers. It complements our world-renowned springtime event, the RTMC Astronomy Expo, held over Memorial Day weekend near Big Bear City, California. This fulfills our long-term goal to host multiple astronomy events that benefit public outreach and attract more individuals to this dynamically changing science and interesting hobby. 

PATS includes:

• A large variety of vendors displaying equipment, software, and many other astronomy-related products for both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts. This will be a perfect time for anyone to make his or her "wish list" before the winter holidays.

• Presentations related to observing, imaging, and astronomy by leading figures in the field.

• Ample meeting space and accommodations for many astronomy groups or organizations to host special purpose meetings or their annual meetings. This offers networking opportunities with the public, vendors, and other groups sharing similar interests.

• Space for local astronomy clubs and other organizations who may wish to have public exposure for their programs.

• A pleasant, modern indoor venue, clean and dust-free, to display a variety of telescopes, cameras, software, hardware, publications, and other related products.

• The attractions of Southern California and downtown Pasadena to entertain you and your family during your stay.

• Special attractions of interest to astronomers such as Caltech and Mount Wilson.

The Pasadena Convention Center is a large, flexible, multi-purpose conference center in Old Town Pasadena. It is near many fine restaurants and hotels, and is easily accessible by freeway or public transportation. The RTMC's Board of Directors has selected this wonderful location for its many amenities, flexibility, and easy access to airports and other locales. The large East Pavilion and surrounding facilities will accommodate more than 100 vendors with additional space for future growth. The meeting and exhibit halls can handle groups from 36 to 960 in the rooms' various configurations. It is ideal not only for the presentations RTMC will bring, but for any vendor who may wish to have extended infomercial sessions to display or train clients to use their products. The convention center and its nearby hotel meeting rooms are ideal for any astronomy-related group that may wish to hold its annual convention in conjunction with PATS. PATS puts everyone interested in amateur astronomy in the same place at the same time.

PATS is scheduled over a full moon weekend, so there should be no conflict with other star parties.

Story Musgrave to Appear at PATS

Six-time shuttle astronaut Story Musgrave will be among the top-caliber presenters at PATS this year.

Vendor/Exhibitor Information

Registration information for vendors and club representatives who wish to have booth or table space at PATS is available here.
Electrical Service should be ordered from Edlen Electrical Exhibition Services.
Ethernet Service should be ordered from SwissCom Hospitality Services.
Booth, Table, Chair, and Cart Service should be ordered from Petersen Events Corporation.

For additional information, contact Allan Guthmiller at vendors@rtmcastronomyexpo.org.

Contact Information

If you are part of an astronomy-related club or group and would like to know about participating in PATS, contact Alex McConahay at clubs@rtmcastronomyexpo.org.

Other inquiries regarding PATS may be directed to pats@rtmcastronomyexpo.org.

Old Town Pasadena