Fourteenth Annual Griffith Observer Writing Contest

Griffith Observatory, in the interest of stimulating the flow of information between scientists, science writers, and the public, proudly announces the sponsorship by Boeing of an annual offering of awards for the best articles in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science.

Awards will be made in March, 2010, for the articles which best communicate to the average reader, material of current or historical interest in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science.

Articles must be a minimum of 3500 words and a maximum of 5000 words in length, typewritten, in English, double-spaced, and accompanied by a brief biographical sketch of the author. At least two (2), finished and camera-ready ink diagrams, graphs, or photographs, ready for publication, must be included. Digital images must be large enough for publication. Permissions, if necessary, must be supplied. The author’s name should appear only on a cover sheet and not on the pages of the article itself.

The cash amounts of the awards are:

• First Prize     $1,000.00
• Second Prize      $350.00
• Third Prize      $200.00
• Fourth Prize      $150.00
• Honourable Mention $50.00

Rules of Participation:

1. All articles must be postmarked by December 31, 2009. The contest is open to all interested persons (Griffith Observatory employees excepted).
2. All winning articles become property of Griffith Observatory. The winning articles will be published in the Griffith Observer.
3. Previously published articles will not be accepted.
4. Any number of articles may be submitted to the contest by one person, but only one prize will be awarded to a winning author.
5. Judging will be done by Griffith Observatory, and the decision of the judges is final. Each entry is judged anonymously so that the author’s identity is unknown to all of the judges.

Address all articles to:

Awards Committee
c/o Griffith Observatory
2800 East Observatory Rd
Los Angeles CA 90027
USA

Phone number (213) 473-0824

Awards are made on the basis of clear and interesting style, accuracy, reader interest in the subject, correct grammar and syntax, originality in presentation and content, and neatness. Failure to meet the requirements on length, appearance, and illustrations may disqualify an entry from consideration.