Southern Star

The Southern Star astronomy convention originated in 1986 and is hosted annually by the
Charlotte Amateur Astronomers Club, Charlotte, North Carolina. The event is held
between late April and mid-May (depending on lunar phase and facility availability) at
Wildacres near Little Switzerland, North Carolina. This is located just off the picturesque
Blue Ridge Parkway – which winds its way through the lower end of the Appalachian
Mountains. Wildacres is a private retreat with modern facilities including motel-like
private rooms with bath, a glass-enclosed dining room combining great family-style
meals with beautiful views overlooking the mountain ridges, and a small auditorium. All
of these facilities are tucked away under the trees at the top of a mountain ridge, but with
enough open areas for viewing the night skies.

Southern Star starts in the late afternoon on a Thursday and concludes mid-morning on the
following Sunday (3 nights). During the convention there are lectures by professionals
on such topics as astronomical research, observatories, amateur observing techniques,
space exploration, etc. There are also activities usually including “swap tables” (to
unload your surplus equipment and find new “treasures”), astro-imaging display and
contest, night-time star-parties (weather permitting), day-time solar viewing (one or two
folks usually have a hydrogen-alpha filter equipped telescope!), an ice-cream social
Saturday night, and – of course – door prizes! There is even time to sit back in a rocking
chair on the hewn stone patio and admire the mountains or take a nature hike through the
woods.

The facility accommodates approximately 115 attendees staying at Wildacres. The
Southern Star registration fee includes all lectures, room accommodations, and all meals
(dinner Thursday, three meals Friday, Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday). All attendees must
register prior to the event – there is no registration “at the door.” Additional information
is on the registration form.

Southern Star is a wonderful astronomical convention event and a great time for
everyone. Come join us in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains!