May 2: International Astronomy Day

Every year, International Astronomy Day is celebrated twice a year. Once on September 26 and other on May 2. On this day, astronomical institutions, planetariums, museums organize fun filled activities and spread awareness about the world of astronomy. Highlights The first International Astronomy Day was celebrated in 1973. It was started by the then president ..

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2020

Category: Important Days & Events Current Affairs

Topics: Astronomical Discovery • Astronomy • Galileo • International Astronomical union • International Astronomy Day • space • United States

International Astronomical Union names a star after Indian Woman Scientist

On December 17, 2019, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) named a white yellow star in Sextans Constellation as “Bhibha” and its planet as “Santamasa” Highlights The star has been named Bhibha honoring Indian Woman Scientist Bhibha Choudhury who discovered subatomic particle pi-meson. Bhibha means a bright beam of light in Bengali. The name Santamasa in ..

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2019

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs

Topics: Exoplanet • International Astronomical union • Particle physics • Planet • Stars

NASA renames Ultima Thule to ‘Arrokoth’

The US Space Agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has recently renamed farthest cosmic body, earlier known as ‘Ultima Thule’ to ‘Arrokoth’ or Sky. NASA has renamed the distant space rock after it was criticized over the old name’s Nazi connections. Key Highlights The rock which was studied in the farthest flyby ever conducted ..

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2019

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs

Topics: Arrokoth • International Astronomical union • Kuiper belt • NASA • New Horizon • Ultima Thule

Minor Planet named after Pandit Jasraj

The IAU – International Astronomical Union has named a minor planet between Mars and Jupiter after an Indian classical singer Pandit Jasraj. He is the first Indian musician to receive this honor. The planet was discovered on November 11, 2006. The minor planets discovered are given permanent numbers by the IAU. The number given to ..

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2019

Category: Awards, Persons & Places in News

Topics: Asteroid Belt • International Astronomical union • minor planet