Later this week starts 100 Hours of Astronomy

<http://www.100hoursofastronomy.org/>, running April 2–5. The focus is a worldwide marathon of amateur astronomers watching the sky, culminating in a star party during the final 24 hours, which coincides with the 3rd annual International Sidewalk Astronomy night. If you have a telescope and know how to use it, get out there! And if you don’t, now’s your chance to find one! Astronomical observatories will be participating via Around the World in 80 Telescopes

<http://100hoursofastronomy.org/program/75-live-24-hour-research-observatory-webcast>,

which will be a live webcast starting on Mauna Kea (with Gemini, Subaru, UKIRT, Keck, CFHT, SMA, CSO all participating) and then heading west until it gets back around to Lick and Palomar 24 hours later.

Keep up with the latest news by following the team on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/telescopecast

Local activities (as far as I know):

Blue Bell   

Downingtown   

Philadelphia 

Titisville  

Valley Forge 

Villanova   

Warminster 

West Chester  

For other locations go to:  http://www.100hoursofastronomy.org/find-events

International Year of Astronomy 2009                                         

The vision of the International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) is to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the Universe through the day- and night time sky, and thereby engage a personal sense of wonder and discovery. All humans should realize the impact of astronomy and basic sciences on our daily lives, and understand better how scientific knowledge can contribute to a more equitable and peaceful society.     

Stay tune to this blog for IYA 2009 Drexel Libraries activities.  We are planning a display in Hagerty Library.  If you would like to work with me in planning and executing activities, please contact me.

Home page for the IYA 2009:  http://www.portaltotheuniverse.org/