Variable Star Associations

Abstract

Astronomy may seem like a rather solitary occupation – up all night with the world asleep all around you while you are looking intently at various objects with a fascination all of their own. Variable stars demand time, patience and long-term study and seem on the surface to be an anti-social sort of pursuit. However, the loneliness of the long distance observational astronomer can be assuaged by interaction with several groups that tie astronomers together in bonds of camaraderie and friendship and in which their endeavors are valued and their results published.