GAM2019 Philippine Report

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May 01

2019

by Norman Marigza

GAM in the Philippines is generally celebrated by various astronomy organizations through public astronomy outreach events. The celebration began with the International Dark-Sky Week from March 31-April 7. An infographic campaign was launched by the Guild for Astronomy Innovation and Advancement – Open Research and Collaborative Learning Experience (GAIA-ORACLE). Each infographic was designed as a 4-panel Facebook image discussing a particular aspect of dark sky preservation. Additional descriptions and useful links to further reading were also provided for some panels. The first in the series of infographics was posted in March 19 to give ample time to promote IDSW and GAM, and getting a post reach of around 9000 people. The rest of the plans for the IDSW didn't push through mostly due to cloudy skies.

The Philippine Astronomical Society continued featuring astro-themed artworks and poetry from their page followers through their Facebook page as they did last year. Nine entries were featured in their page. Meanwhile, other artists will also be highlighted on the Astronomy PH e-zine as part of the second quarter issue.

The Manila Street Astronomers continued their series of free telescope viewing setups in different areas in the Philippines, trying to maximize the days when the weather was favorable. A total of 29 setups were conducted in April in locations like Manila, Mandaluyong, Dasmariñas, Las Piñas, Batangas, Valenzuela, Makiling, and Baguio. For the Global Star Party they partnered with the Manila Yacht Club to host discussions and hold a free telescope viewing along Roxas Boulevard.

Other organizations also conducted Free Telescope Viewing setups for GAM including: Astronomy Enthusiasts Society, UPLB Astronomical Society, Bedan Society of Young Astronomers, Philippine Astronomical Society, Cutting Edge, and Kagitingan Sidewalk Astronomers. A collaborative event between astronomy groups in the Visayas was conducted in celebration of the Cebu City Public Library's 100^th Anniversary. The groups involved where the: Indiana Aerospace University Astronomical Society; University of San Carlos Physics and Astronomy Society; Society of Space Education Research & Development – Philippines (SSERD-PH); Innovation, Science, & Astronomy Association of Cebu; and Philippine Union of Student Organizations for Astronomy.

Aside from astronomy outreach activities there were also groups that held some exhibits, camps and lectures/workshops.