International Year of Astronomy 2009

A very early reminder that next year [2009] will be the official year of "Astronomy" much as 2005 was "The World Year of Physics".

In honor of the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first recorded telescopic observations of the moon, Jupiter, and other extraterrestrial objects, the International Astronomical Union [IAU] has declared an International Year of Astronomy for 2009 [IYA2009]. IYA2009 will provide an opportunity for a global celebration of astronomy, one of the oldest sciences, yet still an area of enduring curiosity and a fertile ground for new discoveries.

The vision of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 is 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. All humans should realize the impact of astronomy and basic sciences on our daily lives, and understand better how scientific knowledge can contribute to a more equitable and peaceful society.

The International Year of Astronomy 2009