The first ever virtual Worldcon is now fully underway and fans all around the world are getting to grips with the technology. It is a massive learning curve for all involved, but it seems to be working quite well, and certainly much better than many people feared.

The big issue is that there simply isn’t a suitable software package to do the whole thing. It needs Grenadine to run the programme, it needs Zoom to run the actual meetings, it needs Discord for the social side, and a few other things as well. But we are learning. Hopefully I will be able to report back in more detail when the dust has settled.

In the meantime, we have had opening ceremonies, which Kelly and Norm did a fine job of hosting. That included the Hugo base reveals. I’m not sure if they are public yet, but they are gorgeous. New Zealand has done the Worldcon community proud there.

I have also watched a few panels, and attended a party. So far so good.