From January 12 to 16, 2025, ALMA was prominently featured at the 245th American Astronomical Society (AAS) meeting in National Harbor, Maryland. The conference brought together leading astronomers, educators, students, and journalists to discuss the latest advancements in astronomy. ALMA’s presence was strong, with numerous scientific presentations, a well-attended workshop on the Wideband Sensitivity Upgrade (WSU), and productive interactions with the community.
ALMA data was key in several sessions, particularly those on protoplanetary disk evolution, galaxy formation, and high-redshift quasars. Highlights included studies on the impact of the WSU on protoplanetary disks, the detection of CO in distant galaxies, and new insights into exoplanetary systems. The NRAO Town Hall provided an essential platform for updates on upcoming capabilities and opportunities for the community.
A major highlight was the WSU workshop, which attracted a large audience eager to learn about the immense advances this upgrade enables. ALMA Director Sean Dougherty shared his thoughts on the event:
“It was fantastic to see ALMA observations in many sessions and the excitement around the WSU. The turnout for the special session on the impact of the WSU on protoplanetary disks was outstanding, seeing the immense advances that the WSU enables. Great meeting.”
Beyond the scientific sessions, ALMA was well represented at press conferences, media engagements, and the exhibition hall, where many researchers and students could learn about ALMA proposal opportunities and upcoming cycles.
Sean Dougherty and Tere Paneque in the NRAO Stand at the 245 AAS meeting in National Harbor, Maryland. Credit: courtesy of P. McCarten, T. Buchanan, B. Angell, R. Minchin, and B. Kent
Adam Cohen hosting the NRAO Stand. Credit: courtesy of P. McCarten, T. Buchanan, B. Angell, R. Minchin, and B. Kent.
Adam Cohen hosted the NRAO Stand. Credit: courtesy of P. McCarten, T. Buchanan, B. Angell, R. Minchin, and B. Kent.
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