Int'l Astronomical Union: Beijing joins global celebration of IAU centenary

World
Europe

02:19

A ceremony has been held here in Beijing, as part of a global celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Astronomical Union. It's also serving as the curtain-raiser for a year of other exciting events across China and the world. Zheng Yibing has more.

The Chinese capital, in the mood for a Global Star Party, as the International Astronomical Union marks a key milestone with four days of celebrations.

ZHAO YONGHENG EXECUTIVE MEMBER, CHINESE ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY "We join the IAU's '100 Hours of Astronomy', and will hold other activities during the year under IAU themes, such as astronomy promotions, highlighting research achievements and other great deeds."

The global event began on Wednesday and will end this weekend. But this is just a kick-starter.

ZHU JIN CURATOR, BEIJING PLANETARIUM "Hundreds of activities will be held nationwide this year, including exhibitions, major astronomical observations for the general public, and photo contests such as one on artificial celestial bodies launched by China."

Organisers say the IAU will stage a collection of events that should inspire people all over the world.

ZHENG YIBING BEIJING "Astronomy has really come into the public consciousness across China in recent years. There's so much more discussion and learning involved these days than ever before. And the international astronomical activities this year will surely give more impetus to this growing trend."

VISITOR "My vision has been broadened. We are here to see our earth and the world beyond. We get access to our world now and also our future, and we wonder how we will evolve, and how our world will be protected."

VISITOR "I have been entranced by astronomical exhibitions and observations since I was little. The IAU is inspiring us in many ways, and we are happy to see it has stepped into its 100th year."

The international body will hold its flagship event "100 Years Under One Sky" in Brussels in April. But there's no doubt that all global efforts to mark the centenary year will broaden our astronomical horizons for years to come. Zheng Yibing. CGTN, Beijing.