Spring Break
Astronomy gets its year
Matthew Childs
Issue date: 2/11/09 Section: News
2009 has been designated the International Year of Astronomy (IYA). This is a global effort established by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Together, these organizations have launched an effort to help citizens around the world rediscover their place in the universe by observing the sky. In result, people from different cultures and nations may engage in learning and discovery.
The vision of IYA2009 is to allow everyone to realize the impact of astronomy on their daily lives and discover how scientific research has lead to more equal and peaceful societies. There are activities planned locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. These activities are planned with hopes to contribute to scientific knowledge and learning in astronomy to an extensive distribution of people. Throughout 2009, events will be planned to generate collaborations between professional and amateur astronomers, professors and students, at various locations. 136 countries are already participating in events while well over 140 are expected to eventually participate.
From Earth to the Universe is an organization joining up with IYA2009. This organization displays a collection of intriguing astronomical images of the most delicate and dramatic views of the universe. This program showcases these exhibits in diverse locations, from public parks to airports to art centers. Memphis is fortunate enough to be one of the many sites that is able to support one of these exhibits. From April 1-30, Memphis Central Library will display around 130 fascinating images of our sky and universe.
IYA2009 has also touched the Rhodes community. Rhodes plans to host observatory open houses that will promote the study of astronomy and observing our sky. Once a month, these open houses will be held to foster IYA2009's efforts to connect astronomy with the Rhodes community.
Sophomore Joshua Fuchs, a major contributer, has helped Rhodes mobilize its involvement. In November of 2008, Fuchs was selected as a NASA IYA Student Ambassador. Accepting this role, Fuchs participates in various events and promotes NASA's contribution to the study of astronomy. Ultimately, Fuchs hopes to connect with many students and potential astronomers to create an overall appreciation for the stars and skies and their phenomenal effects on our cultures and lives today.
Rhodes' last observatory open house was held on February 6. The next open house will be held on March 7.
The vision of IYA2009 is to allow everyone to realize the impact of astronomy on their daily lives and discover how scientific research has lead to more equal and peaceful societies. There are activities planned locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. These activities are planned with hopes to contribute to scientific knowledge and learning in astronomy to an extensive distribution of people. Throughout 2009, events will be planned to generate collaborations between professional and amateur astronomers, professors and students, at various locations. 136 countries are already participating in events while well over 140 are expected to eventually participate.
From Earth to the Universe is an organization joining up with IYA2009. This organization displays a collection of intriguing astronomical images of the most delicate and dramatic views of the universe. This program showcases these exhibits in diverse locations, from public parks to airports to art centers. Memphis is fortunate enough to be one of the many sites that is able to support one of these exhibits. From April 1-30, Memphis Central Library will display around 130 fascinating images of our sky and universe.
IYA2009 has also touched the Rhodes community. Rhodes plans to host observatory open houses that will promote the study of astronomy and observing our sky. Once a month, these open houses will be held to foster IYA2009's efforts to connect astronomy with the Rhodes community.
Sophomore Joshua Fuchs, a major contributer, has helped Rhodes mobilize its involvement. In November of 2008, Fuchs was selected as a NASA IYA Student Ambassador. Accepting this role, Fuchs participates in various events and promotes NASA's contribution to the study of astronomy. Ultimately, Fuchs hopes to connect with many students and potential astronomers to create an overall appreciation for the stars and skies and their phenomenal effects on our cultures and lives today.
Rhodes' last observatory open house was held on February 6. The next open house will be held on March 7.
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