These programs offer both the student and the scientist an opportunity to learn and exchange ideas. A professional may choose to attend a selection of presentation sessions at these meetings and may choose to give a presentation about what they are doing in their field. These conferences offer an exciting way to meet and talk with people who have similar interests and so are a source of ideas. There are numerous professional journals available to the astronomer to read up on what's happening in astronomy nowadays. It is in these journals that scientists publish papers reporting the results of their studies and scientific experiments.
Scientists spend a certain portion of their time on actual science and publishing.
They also have other regular duties. And, of course, they balance their professional lives with their personal lives. Camping and hiking are favorite pasttimes. These two are active boyscouters. These like opera.