On July 23rd, 2003, at the General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union held in Sydney, Australia, all members unanimously adopted the proposal of international year of astronomy in 2009, and indicated that they would participate in and support it. On the basis of Italian hosting, UNESCO suggested to the 33rd session of the United Nations General Assembly that 2009 be designated as international year of astronomy. Finally, the proposal was adopted at the sixty-second session of the United Nations General Assembly.
This year, 1 1 popular science activities were carried out, including "Astronomy 100 Hours", "galileo telescope Project", "From Earth to Universe", "Night Protection" and "Cosmic Diary". Its forms are flexible and diverse, from photographic instrument exhibitions, essay competitions and teacher training to astronomical observation, film and television programs and fun games.
Loiso-Hegul emphasized that all regions in France have prepared wonderful popular science programs, especially in the fields of astronomy and aviation, and France has traditional scientific and technological advantages. She believes that this international year of astronomy event with the theme of "participation and sharing" will have a far-reaching impact on the development and dissemination of astronomy.
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Galileo aimed his telescope at the sky for the first time in 1609. The scientific and technological changes triggered by this breakthrough have profoundly influenced and changed our world view. So far, telescopes on the ground and in space can detect the universe in all bands 24 hours a day.
In international year of astronomy in 2009, we will celebrate the important event that telescopes were first used for astronomical observation 400 years ago. Catherine Cesarsky, president of the International Astronomical Union, said: "international year of astronomy 2009 provides all countries in the world with such an opportunity to participate in this exciting scientific and technological change."