2026 PROTO Workshop

Preceding the 2026 Sagan Summer Workshop, the optional add-on, half-day PROfessional Tools and Opportunities (PROTO) Workshop will take place on July 19, 2026. This Workshop will cover the nuts and bolts of becoming an exoplanet astronomer, offering a how-to guide for getting exoplanet science done, rather than focusing on what the science is. Geared toward the early-career community, this Workshop will be an interactive session that encourages students to contextualize what they learn throughout the Sagan Summer Workshop, and translate it to getting involved. By providing a venue for discussion of otherwise hidden or undiscussed topics, the PROTO Workshop aims to reduce barriers that limit participation in the exoplanet community through all career stages, from student to professional scientist.

This workshop will be a hybrid meeting and all are welcome to attend. Students unfamiliar with the path to becoming an astronomer and/or NASA missions are particularly encouraged to register. PROTO registration uses the same form as the 2026 Sagan Summer Workshop, so you can register for both using this registration form.

You are also invited to join us for a webinar on tips and tricks for effective communication with scientific posters on June 23, 2026 from 9-10am PT. Alison Duck from the NASA Exoplanet Exploration Program office will share advice that you can use for your posters and pops. This one-hour session will offer opportunities for live Q&A. It will also be recorded for later viewing if you cannot attend live. Registration for the webinar will be made available in June.

The list of partipants can be found at these links: in-person and remote.

Please note that letters of attendance will not be provided for attendance of the PROTO workshop.

The agenda will be posted when available.