Activities lined up for International Year of Astronomy in 2009

Filipino astronomers have lined up several activities, including “sidewalk astronomy” for the public, in celebration of the International Year of Astronomy in 2009, officials said yesterday.

The activities aim to bring the benefits of astronomy and science education to all Filipinos, said Dr. Bernardo Soriano, chief of the Atmospheric, Geophysical and Space Sciences Branch (AGSSB) of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

“The IYA celebration will mark the 400th anniversary when Galileo first turned one of his telescopes to the night sky and made remarkable discoveries that changed the world forever,” said Soriano.

Organizers will take stargazing to the streets nationwide with “sidewalk astronomy” to spark public interest in the study of celestial objects and related sciences.

Using telescopes provided by 13 participating private and public astronomical organizations, the public can view the stars.

Other activities during the celebration include local traveling exhibits on astronomy that highlight the achievements of Filipino astronomers nationwide; a national astronomy Olympiad; a quiz show to improve astronomy awareness and knowledge among Filipino students.

There will also be a nationwide series of lectures organized by various astronomical organizations; activities in schools, universities, and national and private research laboratories with the help of memorandum circulars from the Department of Education and Commission on Higher Education; distribution of posters and souvenir items in public areas and transportation terminals; issuance of a special edition postage stamp; and organizing the first National Astronomy Congress with both Filipino and foreign astronomers speaking at the event.

The Philippines, being an associate member of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) since 2000, will participate in the year-long celebration.

Soriano was appointed to lead the national organizing committee (NOC) which will oversee the Philippine IYA 2009 celebration.

Dr. Cynthia Celebre, chief of the Astronomy Research and Development Section (AsRDS) of the AGSSB, was appointed “single point of contact” (SPOC) of the Philippines with the IAU.

Last Sunday, the Philippine IYA 2009 website www.astronomy2009.ph was launched.

Soriano said the web committee is composed of members of the Rizal Technological University Astronomy Students’ Association who will be in charge of the national IYA website and publish strategies and activities for the celebration.  – Helen Flores