Astronomy 2009

Coordination

Steering commitee

Members:

• Pierre Dubath (SPOC and Swiss coordinator) -
• Kathrin Altwegg (coordinator Region Bern) -
• Bruno Binggeli (coordinator Region Basel) -
• Gilbert Burki (coordinator Romandie) -
• Nicolas Cretton (coordinator Ticino) -
• Philippe Jetzer (coordinator Region Zürich) -
• Werner Schmutz (coordinator Region Graubünden) -
• Daniel Schaerer (Swiss Society for Astrophysics and Astronomy, SSAA) - 
• Max Hubmann (Schweizerische Astronomische Gesellschaft, SAG)
• Sylvia Ekström (Webmaster) -

Important contributions from amateur astronomers ...

Societies of Amateurastronomers play a particular role in Astronomy. 35 such societes exist in Switzerland counting more than 2500 members with very diverse backgrounds. Most societies have a long experience in organising events for the general public. With their expertise, know-how, and enthousiasm they will significantly contribute to the rich program of the International Year of Astronomy 2009.

... and professional astronomers ...

Professional astronomers -- approximately 200 in Switzerland -- will join forces, providing in particular public talks, resources such as movies and exhibition material etc. This unique collaboration between academia and amateurs across the whole country is animated by their shared enthousiasm for Astronomy and the Cosmos.

... to offer a rich program for the general public

Thanks to this collaboration we are able to propose an interesting and diverse program with public talks, exhibitions, events etc.