Failure Is Not an Option: Spacefest IX

July 9, 2018

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Hi there, Lvcky here! I went a bit out of my comfort zone this weekend and attended Spacefest IX, at the beautiful JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort in Tucson, Arizona. Spacefest IX is a convention for astronomy community members, as well as space and sci-fi enthusiasts.

The convention ran Wednesday through Sunday, and boasted a list of programming that was jam-packed with astronomers, scientists, and astronauts. I was a bit wary going into this, unsure if I was going to fit in, or if it would even be something that I could enjoy. But as soon as I got there it was clear I had no reason to worry.

The exhibitor hall was humble in size, but featured a small gallery of fine art, all space themed, a small vendor area that included more art and vendors of authentic NASA memorabilia, and even some interactive booths! There was a hall of STEAM activities that were free to the public, including demonstrations from representatives from Kitt Peak Observatory, Biosphere 2, and a telescope to look at sun spots on the patio of the resort.

I had the privilege to sit in on a couple panels. One being the First Man panel, featuring the author of the book, writer of the upcoming film, and a handful of advisers on the film that knew Neil Armstrong (including his sons, Mark and Rick!) I had such a great time at this event. I learned a lot from the STEAM demonstrations, and it rekindled my love for learning about space and NASA’s history. If you have the chance, definitely try to check out this event next summer!