International Year of Astronomy 2009
International Astronomical Union / UNESCO
IYA2009 Secretariat hosted by the European Southern Observatory
From July 2007 - 2010
Abstract
The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is a global effort initiated by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the Universe through the day- and night-time sky, and thereby engage a personal sense of wonder and discovery.
Everyone should realise the impact of astronomy and other fundamental sciences on our daily lives, and understand how scientific knowledge can contribute to a more equitable and peaceful society. IYA2009 activities are taking place locally, nationally, regionally and internationally. National Nodes in each country are running activities throughout 2009 which will establish collaborations between professional and amateur astronomers, science centres and science communicators. 137 countries are already involved and over 140 are expected to participate eventually.
To coordinate this huge global programme and to provide an important resource for the participating countries, the IAU established a central Secretariat and an IYA2009 website (www.astronomy2009.org (LINK)) as the principal IYA2009 resource for public, professionals and media alike.
The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is endorsed by the United Nations and the International Council of Science (ICSU).
Selected Publications
Cesarsky, C, Russo, P. & Christensen, L.L.,2009, The International Year of Astronomy 2009,
Sky & Telescope, Jan. 2009
Russo, P., Christensen, L. L.& Barrosa, M., 2008, The International Year of Astronomy 2009:
The Global Programme Hands-On Symposium ASP Conference Series, 400
Russo, P. & Christensen, L.L.,2007, The International Year of Astronomy 2009, CAPjournal 1, 18-22
Russo, P. & Christensen, L.L. et al., 2007, The International Year of Astronomy 2009 - An Opportunity too Good to Miss, in Christensen, L.L. & Zoulias, M. (eds.) Proceedings from Communicating Astronomy with the Public 2007
