The Great World Wide Star Count starts soon!

[StarCount]

<p style="text-align:center" class="MsoNormal" align="center"><br /><br /><font face="Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-size:16pt">The Great World Wide Star Count</span></strong><br /> <span style="font-size:16pt">http://www.windows.ucar.edu/starcount</span><br /> <strong><span style="font-size:16pt">October 20 &ndash; November 3, 2008</span></strong></font></p> <p>This Windows to the Universe program is an international citizen-science event that encourages everyone, astronomers and non-astronomers alike, to measure their local light pollution and report their observations online. The Great World Wide Star Count, part of the Dark Skies Awareness cornerstone project for the upcoming International Year of Astronomy, is designed to raise awareness about light pollution as well as encourage learning in astronomy. No prior experience is necessary--all information needed to participate is on the Star Count Web site, along with a downloadable activity guide available in eight languages. All observations will be available online via Google Earth and as downloadable datasets.<br /> <br /> In 2007, people from 64 countries contributed more than 6,600 observations to the inaugural Star Count. In order to build momentum in for IYA in 2009, we are hoping to double our participation this year and need your help!</p> <p>Please help us spread the word to your members, families, friends, and especially any teachers that you may know.&nbsp; Our downloads page also contains a half-page flyer that may be freely printed and distributed.</p> <p>If you or your organization are interested or would like more information, please contact us at starcount_info@ucar.edu</p>