IAU General Assemblies are held every three years. These are major events attracting roughly 2,000 astronomers, with associated symposia and specialist meetings. It has now been 26 years since the last (and only) GA was held in Canada, in Montreal.
The location for the 2012 GA has not yet been decided, so the opportunity exists for interested groups in Canada to propose to host it. This is a significant undertaking requiring a major commitment of time and resources. However, such a meeting brings scientific and economic benefits and prestige, and much support is available from federal, provincial and local agencies. The Canadian National Committee of the IAU can assist with coordination and the preparation of the bid.
Interested parties are invited to contact the President, Jim Hesser
(Jim.Hesser@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca), or the 2nd VP, Paul Hickson
(hickson@physics.ubc.ca), for further information.
Responses are requested no later than JUNE 30.
General information on IAU meetings and procedures can be found at www.iau.org/IAU/Activities/meetings/meetrules.html. A document that details the requirements for hosting a General Assembly is available from P. Hickson upon request.