The world is gearing up to celebrate 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy. The International Year of Astronomy 2009 (IYA2009) has been launched by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) under the theme, "The Universe, yours to discover".

 

The official IYA2009 Opening Ceremony will take place in Paris on 15 and 16 January 2009. It will feature keynote speakers, including Nobel Laureates, and live video feeds to scientists working in remote locations.

 

Many nations are holding their own Opening Ceremonies in January and February, showing their dedication to the Year.

 

The IYA2009 Solar Physics Group have been busy planning a grand worldwide campaign, with over 30 countries involved at more than 150 venues, which will see amateur stargazers set up their telescopes on pavements as well as in science centres, letting passers-by observe the Sun using special safety equipment.

 

More than 50 bloggers, professionals from over 35 countries and employed by organizations such as ESO, NASA, ESA and JAXA have already begun producing content, writing about their lives, the work they conduct and the challenges they face.

 

IYA2009 seeks to involve the public at large in its activities, and to this end amateur astronomers have been called upon to help organize and run events.