* Astronomy

Galileo's invention of the astronomical telescope four centuries ago will be celebrated by stargazers all over the world in 2009.
A total of 135 countries are holding events to mark the International Year of Astronomy, 400 years after the Italian scientist first began observing the Moon and planets.
Galileo Galilei made his prototype telescope in 1609, modelled on instruments produced in other parts of Europe that could magnify objects three times. His improved telescope had a magnification of 20 times, allowing him to discover sunspots and the four moons of Jupiter.

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The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is a global effort initiated by the International Astronomical Union 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 will take place locally, nationally, regionally and internationally. National Nodes have been formed in each country to prepare activities for 2009. These nodes will establish collaborations between professional and amateur astronomers, science centres and science communicators to prepare activities for 2009. Already now, 135 countries are involved and well over 140 are expected to participate eventually.
To help coordinate this huge global programme and to provide an important resource for the participating countries, the IAU has established a central Secretariat and an IYA2009 website (www.astronomy2009.org) as the principal IYA2009 resource for public, professionals and media alike.

IYA2009 is a global project, happening on a local level. Over 130 countries have committed themselves to supporting the Year in any way they can, and are fully embracing the ethos of bringing the Universe down to Earth.
As part of their efforts, participating countries have formed National Nodes. These are groups that coordinate IYA2009 activities for specific countries, and are the places to go to find out what is happening in your area, and when.

The 400 Years of the Telescope project is an exciting multimedia celebration of Galileo's first telescopic observations of the cosmos, and the resulting journey of discovery for humanity.

The year 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy (IYA), a celebration of Galileo Galilei's world-changing discoveries since he first looked up into the sky with his telescope 400 years ago.

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