Galaxy Zoo a smash hit during 100 Hours of Astronomy

12 June 2009

For a 100-hour period in April, amateur and professional astronomers around the world joined together in an event of unprecedented scale. Known as 100 Hours of Astronomy (100HA), it was a resounding success. In fact, its effects are still being felt.

Galaxy Zoo is an initiative where members of the public help scientists by classifying galaxies based on their shape. Keen to embrace the spirit of 100HA, the Galaxy Zoo team set themselves the challenge of analysing one million galaxies within the 100 hours. Now it has been revealed that volunteers actually provided more than 2.5 million classifications, far above even the most hopeful expectations. This testament to the enthusiasm of astronomy supporters and the positive influence of IYA2009 has been noted in an Astronomy Now article.

The follow-up to 100HA is a project called Galilean Nights. Taking place on 23-24 October 2009, astronomers will once again be showing the public breathtaking sights. Perhaps Galaxy Zoo will receive another boost, raising its admirable statistics even further.

 

Organisational Associates:
ESO AAS INSU CAS STRW NOVA STFC SCNAT SPA NRC MEC CNES DLR ESA JAXA NAOJ APL PS ESF ISRO ICRAN NLSI NOT U Cluster NASAEAS ASI NRAO CEA  KASI EAE SPA AUI CROSCI


The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is endorsed by the United Nations and the International Council of Science.