Putting the world spotlight on astronomy for the entire month of April 2011, Global Astronomy Month 2011 (GAM 2011)-Astronomers Without Borders' second annual month-long sky celebration-brought together new ideas, new opportunities, and night-sky enthusiasts worldwide, all affirming and celebrating One People, One Sky.
More than 40 programs and events filled the month of April 2011 during the second annual Global Astronomy Month. Enthusiasts in more than 140 countries took part in a broad range of programs highlighting Saturn, the Moon, the Sun, a meteor shower and more. Observing was the most common program activity. Thousands viewed through telescopes provided by amateur astronomers and science centers, and online programs with live interaction between the host and attendees extended the opportunity to thousands more regardless of location or local circumstances. The importance of dark skies was also stressed in several programs along with new, innovative programs such as the popular Astropoetry Blog and a live, online performance that included images sent on a half-million mile round-trip to the Moon and back.
The expansion of programs and participation just one year after the inaugural Global Astronomy Month demonstrates the desire for a central celebration of astronomy following the success of the International Year of Astronomy 2009. Global Astronomy Month 2012 is sure to be even greater.
Download the GAM2011 Final Report (PDF; 14 pages, 1.5 MB).
Global Astronomy Month 2011 was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors:
Media Sponsor: Sky and Telescope Magazine
Planet Sponsors: OPT and Explore Scientific
Moon Sponsor: Woodland Hills Telescopes
