IYA2009 Updates

12 June 2009

The Galileo Teacher Training Program brings astronomy into the classroom

The Galileo Teacher Training Program has been launched, bringing training and resources to teachers around the globe. The project's aim is to improve astronomy education for children of all nations, by better equipping their tutors through a comprehensive set of resources and practical guidance. Read the release information here: http://www.astronomy2009.org/news/pressreleases/detail/iya0911/

.Astronomy 2009 conference
The internet has been instrumental in bringing the activities of IYA2009 to a huge public with blogs, podcasts and webcasts. In the .Astronomy workshop we will review the success of these initiatives and discuss how to keep the momentum of IYA2009 into the coming years. Read more here: http://lorentzcenter.nl/lc/web/2009/362/info.php3?wsid=362

Galaxy Zoo a smash hit during 100 Hours of Astronomy
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. Find out about how 100HA helped the Galaxy Zoo project to break a record: http://www.astronomy2009.org/news/updates/312/

Paper models help explain the Universe
Free cut-out and make paper models have been released online by Canon. The designs are for the structure of the Sun, a sundial, a lunar globe, interactive planisphere, cut-away Mt. Fuji, and a cross-section representation if the Earth. The designs can be easily downloaded, along with detailed instructions of how to successfully construct them. They will help explain the workings of our planet and other astronomical objects to a wide audience, and encourage hands-on investigation of astronomy. Obtain them here: http://cp.c-ij.com/en/contents/3151/list_15_1.html

Developing Astronomy Globally: update
In April 2009 the IAU and UNESCO provided funding to support IYA2009 related projects and activities in developing regions. A call for proposals was sent out to Single Points of Contact around the world via the Developing Astronomy Globally Cornerstone. The aim was to provide seed funding and basic support to stimulate astronomy activities in developing regions. Find out about the response here: http://www.astronomy2009.org/news/updates/310/

Dust off your binoculars for IYA2009
A new online monthly column called Binocular Universe has been launched. Written by veteran stargazer Phil Harrington, the first article is called "The Heart of the Scorpion" and is all about the star Antares, and the deep-sky sights in its vicinity. Read it here: http://www.cloudynights.com/item.php?item_id=1981

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