International Year of Astronomy 2009 Planning

American Astronomical Society, Washington DC

Investigators

Abstract

This award provides funds to support the meeting organization and attendance of representatives from the US astronomical community in the planning for the International Year of Astronomy 2009 (IYA2009). The IYA2009 celebrates the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first use of the telescope for astronomical observations, with the intention to use this event as a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture, stimulating interest in astronomy and science in general. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) will lead in organizing a number of global or international events, coordinating their activities with the national communities. Many countries have formed 'national nodes' to prepare for activities in 2009; this award provides funding to support the planning and coordination of the US efforts through a series of workshops.