66th Workshop for Variable Star Observers

The Variable Star and Exoplanet Section of the CAS, in cooperation with the observatory in Valašské Meziříčí, is organizing the 66th workshop for variable star observers, which will take place from August 27 to August 30, 2026.

If you are interested in astronomical observations that can serve science, then this workshop is intended specifically for you! At the workshop, observers will learn the basics of observing with CCD and CMOS cameras and digital SLRs. You can observe your first exoplanet transit here, or even discover a new variable star! The workshop is also suitable for beginning observers and students.

Workshop Topics

Workshop participants will be able to familiarize themselves with photometry procedures using CCD cameras and digital SLRs – in clear weather, variable stars and exoplanet transits will be actively observed, and we will introduce new features of the SIPS program for CCD camera control and image processing. In addition, participants will learn the results of various observation campaigns in which SPHE section observers participate – photometry of four-star and multiple systems, the photometry program for chromospherically active stars, and interesting eclipsing binaries.

Among other things, the following topics will also be discussed:

• telescope control and CCD and DSLR camera operation
• observation preparation and object selection
• observation of variable stars
• observation of exoplanet transits
• processing of raw photometric data
• obtaining a photometric curve, its interpretation, and publication

In addition to other activities during the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to tour the entire observatory grounds.

Accommodation + Workshop Price

The workshop will take place in the new premises of the Cultural and Creative Center observatory, which houses both a lecture room and new accommodation in the form of 3 x four-bed rooms and 6 x double rooms, accommodating a total of 24 people. The accommodation includes a fully equipped kitchenette (stove, refrigerator, freezer, microwave, kettle, and dishes).

Workshop Price

For the entire stay (Wednesday–Sunday):
Includes accommodation at the observatory, room rental, and basic refreshments (coffee, tea, opening barbecue).

• Standard price – 1,800 CZK
• Students (High School, University) – 900 CZK

Without accommodation:

• Standard price – 400 CZK

Daily variants:

• Standard price – 600 CZK / day + night (incl. accommodation)
• Students – 300 CZK / day + night (incl. accommodation)
• Daily visit – 200 CZK / day (without accommodation)

More demanding participants have the option to stay in nearby hostels at quite reasonable prices, see for example: Booking.com, Penziony.cz, Hotel.cz.

Catering

Each participant arranges their own meals individually. Dining is possible at the “Orion” restaurant (lunches only – approx. 30 m from the observatory) or the “U mrtvolky” restaurant opposite the hospital. There are several grocery stores near the observatory (Albert is open until 8:00 PM). Alternatively, cooking is possible in the KKC kitchenette, subject to the “3×U” rule (wash, dry, and put away dishes immediately).