News Round-up, 20 March 2009

20 March 2009

We want to spend much of 2009 looking up at the stars, but to do that sometimes we must pay attention to what's happening closer to home. 28 March will bring us Earth Hour, as mentioned on the 100 Hours of Astronomy blog, when as many as one billion people will be turning off their lights to promote global sustainability. But don't worry, there's an astronomical motive as well: preserving dark skies. Nevada News reports that their local Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center at the University of Nevada will be celebrating Earth Hour from 7-10pm. So they're three times as enthusiastic as most. Similar events are occurring in the Homer Glen (US) region, reports Neighborhood Star, and GenQ is hopeful that all Australians will participate. If you're near any Earth Hour events, try to make it along to show your support. Bring a torch though, it'll probably be dark.

If you are lucky enough to have lovely dark skies, what should you look out for? Knox News has a commendable article about observing the planet Saturn, complete with tips from an astronomer. Nicely done, Knox News.

The News Herald (serving Burke County, NC, apparently) has a reassuringly lengthy article about an upcoming series of astronomy events held in Lake James State Park. Monthly star parties will be run by a Park Ranger assisted by the Catawba Valley Astronomy Club. There's a specially taken photo to illustrate the text, and they've included a link to astronomy2009.org in a prominent position. News Herald, you are setting an example for others to follow.

To the UK next, and This is Exeter has been advertising a special event hosted by the University of Exeter Astrophysics Group. It will be held on 1 April, and features hands-on demonstrations and talks from the astronomers. Dr Jennifer Hatchell, of the university's School of Physics, said: "The International Year of Astronomy is a chance for everyone to experience these things, and we look forward to sharing them with our visitors." I couldn't have put it better myself.

Not many articles begin with the line "What do the International Year of Astronomy and jazz music have in common?" To find out the answer, strut over to University of Guelph and read! But if your clicking finger is too tired, I'll tell you: a physics professor and singer/songwriter has produced a new album of songs inspired by people's fascination with the sky. Maclean's Magazine has written an article about her, which has got to be a good sign. If your curiosity has been sparked, there are music previews online.

That is all for now.

Lee Pullen
IYA2009 Staff Writer

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