Statement on the International Year of Astronomy 2009
Drafted by the SPS Council on October 13, 2008

The Society of Physics Students is pleased to partner with and offer its unqualified support for the International Year of Astronomy in 2009. The SPS is proud to be a part of the effort in the IYA 2009 to raise awareness of astronomy. In keeping with the IYA theme – “The Universe, Yours to Discover” the Society of Physics Students has chosen “A Universe of Wonder” for its theme in 2009. We believe this theme compliments that of the IYA and offers the SPS an opportunity to help advance not only astronomy and cosmology but also such diverse areas of physics such as quantum gravity, particle physics and string theory. These areas – and others – are playing a vital role in contributing to our understanding of the universe. The Society of Physics Students is proud to lend its support to the efforts of all the individuals who are working to make the IYA 2009 a reality.

While physics and astronomy are related yet distinct, the fields share many of the same goals – none greater than educating the public about science and science policy issues. An informed electorate is a vital part of any democratic society and it is the duty of all scientists to help advance the dialog between citizens and their government whenever possible. The IYA 2009 offers us all the opportunity to lend our voices to the discussions of issues which impact us all and the SPS can help by lending its voice to the chorus of others. In this spirit, SPS also recognizes the 2009 Year of Science, led by the Coalition for the Public Understanding of Science (COPUS), and the 2007-09 Year of Planet Earth, a joint initiative by UNESCO and the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS).

The events and activities that are planned for the IYA are meant to showcase astronomy and related issues for the general public. The numerous national and local events planned for the IYA 2009 share many of the same attributes as SPS activities. By involving SPS chapters around the country during IYA 2009 activities, we draw on the strengths of various members of the SPS that can help make the IYA 2009 successful in reaching a larger audience.   

All too often we pass up the opportunity to participate in events that enrich us in many ways. Bound by the constraints of our daily lives, we miss participating in events that can truly change our world. Let us not pass up the challenge to be involved in the IYA 2009 activities that will enrich us all.