Astronomy Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Feb 08, 2022
Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj
On Astronomy Day, look up at the stars in the night sky.

Where is Astronomy Day celebrated?

Astronomy Day is celebrated globally, including in the United States of America.

Who is Astronomy Day celebrated by?

Astronomy Day is celebrated by astronomy clubs and associations around the world.

When did Astronomy Day first start?

International Astronomy Day was first started in 1973.

Who started Astronomy Day?

Doug Berger conceptualized International Astronomy Day. At the time it began he was the President of the Astronomical Association of Northern California.

History And Timeline

Astronomy Day was started with the intention of promoting astronomy with the general public. This day is celebrated once in the fall and once in the spring season. This day originated in the '70s and has continued to be celebrated globally to date.

Telescope Is Invented

Hans Lippershey, a spectacles maker from the Netherlands invented the telescope.

1608

Milky Way Galaxy

Galileo makes multiple astronomical discoveries such as the Milky Way Galaxy and four Jovian Moons with the telescope.

1609

Beyond The Solar System

The existence of other galaxies like the Milky Way was pointed out by Hubble.

1923

Man In Space

Yuri Gagarin, a Russian astronaut, becomes the first man to be in space.

1961

Astronomy Day

Doug Berger initiates Astronomy Day and decides to set up telescopes on street corners to bring astronomy to the people.

1973

Traditions And Customs

On Astronomy Day, many events are organized by astronomy clubs and associations across the country. These events are designed to fulfill the primary purpose of this important day.

Some activities include webinars and conferences with famous astronomers, photography competitions, outdoor observing, astronomy exhibitions, and space telecasts. The best event is also awarded by the Astronomical League in cooperation with Sky and Telescope and the American Astronomical Society.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Astronomy Day

Take stock of the events being organized by astronomy clubs and associations, science museums, observatories, universities, and so on. Most of them will organize star gazing events by setting up telescopes.

Learn more about the solar system and beyond on Astronomy Day. Pack your telescope and go on a stargazing trip with your family and friends. Do an astronomy movie, drama, or documentary series marathon to bring yourself up to speed with this interesting and mysterious world.

Facts And Stats

  • The first Astronomy Day was celebrated in 1973.
  • Doug Berger conceptualized Astronomy Day to entice people living in urban locations to take an interest in astronomy.
  • The main theme of this day is Bringing Astronomy to People.
  • The Astronomical League, in cooperation with the Astronomical Association of America of Northern California, sponsors awards for the organizations that host the best events on Astronomy Day.

Why do we celebrate Astronomy Day?

Astronomy Day is observed to raise public awareness of astronomy.

When is Astronomy Day?

There is no specific date on which International Astronomy Day is celebrated. Astronomy Day was originally celebrated between mid-April and mid-May on a Saturday. Later, another rendition was added, which is held between mid-September and mid-October on a Saturday. The selected day is generally close to the first quarter moon.

Do all countries celebrate Astronomy Day?

Astronomy Day is classed as an international event.

Is Astronomy Day a major event for astronomers?

Astronomy Day was established to spread public awareness about celestial bodies across the world.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Saturday, May 02, 2020
  • Saturday, May 15, 2021
  • Saturday, May 07, 2022
  • Saturday, April 29, 2023
  • Saturday, May 18, 2024

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj

Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

Vikhaash Sundararaj picture

Vikhaash SundararajBachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

With a background in International Business Management, having completed his degree at the University of Hull. Vikhaash has volunteered with 'Teach For India' to help students create a monthly newsletter. In his free time, he enjoys sports and was the assistant captain of his school's hockey team. He has also gained marketing experience through an internship at Decathlon Sports India.

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