In 2009 it will be 400 years since the Italian scientist Galileo Galilei turned a telescope the heavens. The International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009), a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture, marks this event.

With the theme of “The Universe, Yours to Discover”, IYA will help reconnect people with the night sky, the common heritage of humanity.

IYA2009 is an initiative of the International Astronomical Union, the body that represents professional astronomers worldwide, and UNESCO, the educational and cultural arm of the United Nations.

IYA2009 activities will take place locally, regionally and nationally. Next month we’ll tell you about the Australian plans and how you can get involved.

Want more information? Visit this website.