The University of Wyoming is hosting a NASAf-funded free (yes, FREE!) writer’s workshop in Laramie, Wyoming this summer, the second such outreach effort designed to teach writers about modern science, especially astronomy, and through their subsequent work hopefully impact the broader public.  Organized around the research of Mike Brotherton and billed as “Improving Science Literacy Through Words and Media,” the Workshop seeks the following:

We hope to both educate the public and reach the next generation of scientists. Therefore selection will be based in part on audience size as demonstrated through print runs, downloads, or sales figures when available.  Secondary considerations will include the content and potential of applicant work — to what extent science in general and astronomy in particular are likely to be a significant factor in their future publications.  Applicants should address these points when they apply.  Several slots will be reserved for the strongest minority/female applicants who may have additional promise in reaching groups less represented in both the physical sciences and hard science fiction.

Based on the past attendee list from 2007, it’s a great place to spend a week just to be surrounded by interesting people.

The program runs July 30 to August 5, and the ‘free’ part comes with a slight catch, in that participants have to get there (some travel can be paid if justified and applied for) and generally buy their own dinner; that’s still one heck of a deal, though.  Rooms are free, as are snacks, coffee and lunch.  Application deadline is March 31, so get cracking!