UCF to host planetary conference

Some 1,000 scientists will converge on Orlando next week for a conference of the Division of Planetary Sciences, hosted by the University of Central Florida, which is trying to build up its 5-year-old planetary sciences department.

A group within American Astronomical Society, the DPS scientists will present scientific papers and discuss the latest developments in their fields Oct. 7-12.

Held for the first time in Florida, the conference shows a growing respect for UCF, said Humberto Campins, who is also director of the planetary sciences group housed in the physics department at UCF.

"It is another sign that we are growing and gaining a reputation of excellence in the field," said Campins. "Our students will have the benefit of participating in this conference."

Since Campins was hired five years ago, the group's faculty has grown to eight. The group has applied to be accredited in undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Facts:

- Seven UCF planetary sciences professors and four students will present research findings.

- More than 1,000 school children from Orange County will visit.

- A large contingent of scientists from South America and Spain are expected.

- NASA will contribute heavily to the conference offering a variety of talks and workshops from how to write winning grant proposals to a discussion about the latest technology NASA is considering for solar system exploration missions of the future.

- Female scientists will discuss "Women in Leadership" during a lunch program from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 10.