On Saturday 13 April 2019 at the Palace of the Academies in Brussels, Belgium, the International Astronomical Union will organise its first event for amateur astronomers. The IAU100 Secretariat hereby invite amateur astronomers to engage with the event by attending and/or sharing their work as an amateur astronomer.

 

With an inspirational full-day event that will include the participation of NASA astronaut John Grunsfeld, renowned scientists involved in hot topics in astronomy and presentations from the amateur astronomical community, the IAU aims to further build the relationship between amateur astronomers, their organizations and the IAU.

 

The activities organised by amateur astronomers play an integral role reaching out to the general public to engage them with the wonders of the universe, as shown throughout the recent 100 Hours of Astronomy events. The IAU wants to highlight their valuable work and contributions during its 100th anniversary celebrations in 2019, which will increase awareness of a century of astronomical discoveries and the use of astronomy as a tool for education, development and diplomacy.

 

This special event for amateur astronomers will include keynote lectures by prominent scientists, review talks about Professional-Amateur astronomy projects, parallel sessions to showcase the work of amateur astronomers and panels discussing topics such as what the IAU can do for amateur astronomers. There will also be the possibility for showcasing some equipment as well as visiting the acclaimed Above and Beyond exhibition, which has been commissioned by the IAU to showcase some of the most significant and surprising astronomical breakthroughs that have shaped science, technology and culture over the last century.

 

The event is free to attend for any amateur astronomer worldwide, and we look forward to participation from a broad range of countries. Both Registration and Abstract submission are now open, and the IAU welcomes contributions by amateur astronomers.

If you are interested in attending the event please register here by 15 March 2019 at the latest. Attendance is limited to about 400 people and is on a first come, first serve basis.

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The deadline for abstract submission is Sunday 10 February 2019. Find more about abstract submission here. The selected contributions will be communicated to their authors by late February.

 

If you have any question concerning the Amateur Astronomy Day event, please contact the IAU100 Secretariat at rivero@strw.leidenuniv.nl.

 

Join the IAU celebrating a century of astronomical discoveries Under One Sky!