Satellite symposia can save travel funds for both the main and satellite meetings. On the other hand, they may create problems for the organizer of the main meeting. To avoid this, satellite symposia lasting longer than one day should only be permitted under the following conditions:

1. They are held after the main meeting.

2. They do not compete for funds with the main meeting.

3. Their presentations are coordinated with those of the main meeting.

4. Their budgets are kept separate.

5. Travel support for participants of both meetings is coordinated.

The first condition is based on the experience that: (a) most people feel tired after several days of scientific discussions; and (b) a specialized meeting still attracts a good audience when the general interest is waning. If a general meeting follows a specialized symposium, the chances are that tired participants will either leave early, or spend more time in the hallways than in lecture rooms. And you, the organizer, will cringe at these ‘lobby lizards’ when the audience in some sessions drops to an embarrassing low.

On the other hand, a conference dealing with a topic directly relating to one's research has an enlivening effect, provided there is a chance for discussion, and not just another barrage of talks. Thus, a well-conceived satellite symposium should not suffer from a preceding main event. A good satellite symposium will provide opportunities for personal interaction, such as Workshops, Round Table Discussions with participation of the audience, and Poster Sessions.

The second condition is self-evident, but all too often ignored. An extreme case should make the point.