National Astronomy Day! 4-24-2010

April 24, 2010 Astronomy Day 2010

Ok, this year National Astronomy Day falls on April 24th. The date occurs on a Saturday between mid-April and mid-May, and is scheduled so as to occur at or just before the first quarter Moon. This means that the event happens on a different date each year, rather than a set calendar date.

Last year Wendy taught the children about Orion and this year she will be focusing on the Big and Little Dipper. Hopefully Wendy will find some good children’s stories about Constellations at our local library that she can read to the kids. Luckily this year April 24th is on a Saturday. We are hoping for a clear night so the kids have the opportunity to stay up a little later than usual to check out the night sky. Hopefully the kids will be able to find and recognize a few of the constellations they learned about earlier this day.

CRAFT:
Using black construction paper and white chalk they can create their own night sky. Then they can write the name of their constellation and display these in the house.

What is this holiday about?

 To promote the science of Astronomy-
 Astronomy Day is an annual event intended to provide a means of interaction between the general public and various astronomy enthusiasts, groups and professionals. The theme of Astronomy Day is "Bringing Astronomy to the People," but on occasion there is an additional theme (but not always) when conditions warrant. This additional theme is often decided just a few months prior to Astronomy Day.

Origin of this holiday:
 This event was started in 1973 by Doug Berger, the president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California. His intent was to set up various telescopes in busy urban locations so that passersby could enjoys views of the heavens. Since then the event has expanded and is now sponsored by a number of organizations associated with astronomy.

We found recognition about this holiday from:

 Calendar sites and personal Internet sites that blog and share information about this holiday.

How is this holiday celebrated?

• Observances: astronomy-related events and competitions-
• Local astronomical societies, planetariums, museums, and observatories will be sponsoring public viewing sessions, presentations, workshops, and other activities to increase public awareness about astronomy and our wonderful universe

This description above uses some material from Wikipedia/article astronomyday /and other sites.