Did you know that 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy? Sounds pretty impressive, but what does it mean and what can we do to be a part of the celebration? Glad you asked. The International Year of Astronomy is a global effort started by the International Astronomical Union and supported by the United Nations and International Council of Science. In a nutshell, this effort focuses on global, national, regional, and local activities that foster humans' awareness of the day and night skies and how we may discover our place in the Universe and all the wonder it brings to us. 2009 marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first use of a telescope, as well as, several other historic scientific events.
How can you get involved? NASA has several events posted on their website along with information for educators and Astronomy enthusiasts. A great way to get involved in the celebration is to go outside and look up. Every month the sky offers an impressive show that is sure to delight and fascinate.
Get a telescope or book on Astronomy and celebrate the awe of the Universe with a child in your life. Even a set of binoculars will offer a clearer perspective to the endless mysteries we have yet to uncover about our place in the vast sky. The scientific discoveries are endless and waiting for the next generation of astronomers to look up and wonder: where do we fit in?
