November 05, 2009 , Ottawa, Ontario
As the International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) draws to a close, Canadians are reporting a new appreciation for the beauty and mysteries of our universe. Educational events in 147 countries across the world have brought millions of people together to share a look at objects in the day or night skies or to learn more about the universe.
Canada is a world leader in astronomy and astrophysics research and a partner in several international astronomy facilities and collaborations. Scientists at the NRC Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics in Victoria and Penticton, British Columbia, have been working enthusiastically with their IYA partners to introduce Canadians to the science behind stargazing.
Maxime, son of NRC astronomer Dr. Luc Simard, checks out the Sun on a beautiful October day -- one of a million astronomy events logged this year. Dr. Simard reminds viewers to use a telescope fitted with the proper solar filters.
One of the objectives of the IYA is to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the venerated 17th century scientist, Galileo Galilei. Among his many discoveries, Galileo was the first to note the presence of moons revolving around Jupiter, like our Earth revolves around our Sun - a fact not widely accepted at that time.
A "Galileo moment" is a personal experience of astronomy gained through one of the 3,000 or more Canadian events that have been officially sanctioned as an IYA 2009 activity.
"When we embarked on this year-long celebration of astronomy, we set a goal of having at least one million Canadians experience a 'Galileo moment'," says Dr. James Hesser, Director of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory and the Canadian Chair, IYA 2009. "We have already exceeded that goal and it's only the end of October. Attendance at many astronomy events held during the recent National Science and Technology Week hasn't yet been registered."
A Galileo moment could take place when looking through a telescope, attending an astronomy talk, visiting a science centre or planetarium, or just stargazing in the back yard with someone knowledgeable. The IYA website mentions many ways in which people can experience their own astronomy "moment."
"More than half of humanity now lives in urban settings where the splendours of the night skies are lost because of the city lights. And many have never been to a science centre or planetarium," says Dr. Hesser. "This year has provided opportunities to help ordinary people experience some of the marvels we astronomers enjoy."
A section of the Veil Nebula. Image by Paul Mortfield and Stefano Cancelli (galaxydynamics.org)
The International Year of Astronomy promotes not just interest in astronomy but also the value of a scientific culture. "Although the year's events are for everybody, we especially want to encourage young people who get excited about astronomy to study subjects that could lead to a career in science, engineering or technology," adds Dr. Hesser.
Many imaginative activities have taken place across Canada. "At some events, musicians or artists have joined hands with astronomers to create a unique and inspiring experience," says Dr. Hesser. "Also, Canada Post has produced two beautiful stamps featuring Canadian observatories and images, while the Royal Canadian Mint has created a spectacular commemorative coin."
It's not too late to enjoy some of the events scheduled for November and December. Look for an event near you at www.astronomy2009.ca.
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Email: info@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
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NRC Experts and Staff
