Starbase48 @ TUSCON53

TusCon 53 – Tucson Science Fiction Convention

November 13–15\, 2026 | Tucson\, Arizona

Starbase48 members and fellow science-fiction fans have another Arizona convention to put on the calendar! TusCon 53 takes place November 13–15, 2026, at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Tucson Airport, 7051 S. Tucson Blvd., Tucson, Arizona 85756. TusCon describes itself as Arizona’s longest-running science-fiction, fantasy, and horror convention.

About TusCon

TusCon is a smaller, literary-focused science-fiction, fantasy, and horror convention organized by the Baja Arizona Science Fiction Association (BASFA). In addition to its emphasis on books and writing, the convention incorporates art, science, animation, media, gaming, cosplay, performances, and fan discussions. Attendance is intentionally limited to 500 registered attendees, giving fans more opportunities to interact with authors, artists, panelists, and other guests.
For Starbase48 members who enjoy the social side of fandom, TusCon should offer plenty of opportunities to meet other Arizona sci-fi enthusiasts while exploring interests beyond Star Trek.

2026 Guests of Honor

TusCon 53 has announced an impressive group of Guests of Honor:
Author Guest of Honor: Rebecca Roanhorse
Artist Guest of Honor: Galen Dara
Musical Guest of Honor: Tim Griffin
Toastmaster: Linda Addison
Fan Guests of Honor: Jason & Deena Drotman
The convention has also announced dozens of additional featured writers, artists, performers, creators, and other participants.

What to Expect

TusCon programming traditionally emphasizes participation and interaction rather than simply watching from the audience. Attendees can expect activities such as:

Author discussions, readings, and writing-related programming
Science presentations
Science-fiction, fantasy, and horror discussion panels
Fan-led panels
Gaming, including tabletop and computer games
Art Show
Vendor Hall
Cosplay Fashion Show
Interactive game shows
Performances and other special programming

The Vendor Hall features books, artwork, collectibles, handcrafted items, and work from artists, authors, and other creators.

Convention Passes

Current full-event pricing listed by TusCon is:
Adult Full Event Pass — $60
Child Full Event Pass (ages 6–15) — $30
Because TusCon limits attendance to 500 registered attendees, the organizers recommend registering early.

Convention Hotel

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Tucson Airport
7051 S. Tucson Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85756
The current TusCon convention room rate is $130 per night plus taxes and fees. The convention room block is scheduled to remain open through October 15, 2026, subject to availability. Hotel amenities listed by TusCon include free Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.

Why TusCon Fits Starbase48

TusCon’s combination of science fiction, fandom, gaming, literature, science, art, cosplay, and community makes it a natural event for Starbase48 members.
Whether you’re primarily a Star Trek fan or your interests extend to other science-fiction and fantasy universes, TusCon provides an opportunity to discover new authors and creators, participate in discussions, play games, browse original artwork and merchandise, and—most importantly—meet other fans.

Interested in Going with Starbase48?

Starbase48 members and prospective members who are interested in attending TusCon 53 are encouraged to discuss the convention at our upcoming meetings and on the Starbase48 Discord server.
If enough members are interested, we can explore making TusCon 53 a Starbase48 group outing, including coordinating who is attending and opportunities for members to meet up during the convention.
Convention: TusCon 53
Dates: November 13–15, 2026
Location: DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Tucson Airport
City: Tucson, Arizona
Adult Full-Event Pass: $60
Official Website: TusConSciFiCon.com
Starbase48 — Star Trek & Sci-Fi Fan & Social Club
Explore strange new worlds, meet fellow fans, and enjoy the adventure together.