The Embassy of Malaysia in Helsinki attended a reception on the occasion of the International Astronomical Union Executive Committee meeting held in Finland this week. The committee is meeting in Finland - Helsinki and Rovaniemi -for the first time to discuss acute issues for astronomers worldwide.
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is one of the oldest and largest unions of professional scientists. IAU deals not only with purely scientific issues but involves also more common matters including the naming of celestial bodies such as minor planets, planets and stars. IAU also addresses the protection of our dark and quiet sky as large constellations of satellites make the sky light-polluted for astronomers. It also plays a major role in furthering the use of astronomy to stimulate teaching in schools and for engagement with the public.
The IAU was founded in 1919 and has around 12,000 members. Malaysia, through the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) https://www.mysa.gov.my/ has also been a member of the IAU since 1988.
Looking forward to opportunities in promoting international collaboration in the vast and intriguing field of astronomy..
