2009 is the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first telescopic observations of the sky, an event which ushered in the modern era of astronomy and astrophysics. The International Astronomy Union has declared 2009 the "International Year of Astronomy." It is exceptionally convenient that this coincides with the opening of the new planetarium theater at the Leitner Observatory!

The main theme of the International Year of Astronomy is "The Universe-- Yours to Discover." One of the main goals of the project is to encourage people to make a personal connection with the Sky and the Universe by looking through a telescope, by trying to decrease the amount of light pollution in their neighborhood so that everyone can enjoy the view of the stars and the Milky Way, and/or by sharing the excitement of learning about the Universe with a child.

Many universities, planetariums, and science museums are hosting special events for the IYA 2009. In addition to our weekly (every Tuesday night) public events which include planetarium shows, lectures, exhibits, and telescope viewing.

The main calendar for "Year of Astronomy 2009" events sponsored by the Yale Astronomy Department is on this website, but here are some of the IYA events that will be happening at the Leitner Observatory:

In October:

Oct. 8, 7pm (at the Peabody Museum): A public talk by author and amateur astronomer David Levy

Oct. 23, 7pm (at LFOP): Movie night at the planetarium, "Seeing in the Dark." Movie viewing and discussion with astronomers

In November:

Nov. 3, 7pm (at LFOP): Author Bob Crelin will discuss his childrens' book, Faces of the Moon.

Nov. 19, 5pm (at the Peabody Museum): Dr. David Rabinowitz will present a public talk titled, "Weird Solar Systems."

In December:

Dec. 4, 7pm (at LFOP): Movie night at the planetarium, "The Core"

Dec. 15, 6pm (at LFOP): "Celebrate the Solstice," Talk and planetarium show