Cosmic Light

The importance of light reaches far beyond life on Earth. Through major scientific discoveries and technological advancements, light has helped us to see and better understand the universe. Discover breakthroughs in Astronomy, view stunning images of the cosmos, and learn more about dark skies.

Cosmic Light

Einstein Centenary

In 1915, the theory of General Relativity developed by Einstein showed how light was at the center of the very structure of space and time. There will be many events worldwide focusing on this seminal theory of the universe, and this page will provide specific links so you can get involved, and will also provide other resources so that you can learn about Einstein and his many contributions to physics and cosmology. read on Einstein Centenary

Dark Skies Awareness

In most large cities of the world, it is no longer possible to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Inefficient public lighting both wastes energy and causes “light pollution” that hides our universe from us. This page will provide links and resources to explain the adverse impacts of lighting on local environments and provide information on how you can help, and where you can go to see a dark sky near you. read on Dark Skies Awareness

A Universe of Images

From our nearest planetary neighbors to the most distant galaxies, the cosmos is a wonder to behold, and we are incredibly lucky in the 21st century to be able to see so many remarkable and beautiful images taken from telescopes and satellites. This page will provide many samples and links that are truly inspiring! read on A Universe of Images

The Big Bang

In 1965, Bell-labs scientists Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson discovered the Cosmic Microwave Background, an electromagnetic echo of the origin of the universe. The Big Bang has now entered into popular culture, but most people have no idea really what it means for cosmology. This web page will explain the history behind the 1965 measurements, and provide resources and links so you can learn what it all means! read on The Big Bang

Galileoscope

The Galileoscope is a high-quality, low-cost telescope kit developed by a team of leading astronomers and science educators. No matter where you live, with this easy-to-assemble kit, you can see the celestial wonders that Galileo Galilei first glimpsed over 400 years ago including lunar craters and mountains, four moons circling Jupiter, the phases of Venus, Saturn’s rings, and countless stars invisible to the unaided eye. This page will provide information on how you can obtain a Galileoscope yourself. read on Galileoscope

Copyright © IYL2015

This website was developed by Lightsources.org, a collaboration between communicators from light source facilities around the world.

IYL2015 is a global initiative adopted by the United Nations to raise awareness of how optical technologies promote sustainable development and provide solutions to worldwide challenges in energy, education, agriculture, communications and health.