Berlin, Jan 18: Bangladesh has become the 100th participating state at the International Year of Astronomy 2009 – a worldwide astronomy project.

The International Year of Astronomy 2009 (IYA) represents the largest coordinated effort of professional and non-professional astronomers in history for popularising astronomy. It aims to be a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture.

Now, the latest country to join this initiative is Bangladesh, which aims to promote astronomy and develop astronomical networks in developing countries.

"Although being a developing country, Bangladesh has a large number of space enthusiasts, perhaps more than anywhere else in the world,” said F. R. Sarker, the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Astronomical Society.

"The IYA2009 is a historic event which will offer unique opportunities for the people of Bangladesh to learn more about the incredible developments in the field of astronomy," he added.

The global initiative might also help Bangladesh to go much forward in the field of astronomy.

“Our hope is that IYA2009 will enable Bangladesh to establish a large optical observatory in Chittagong to explore the mysteries of the Universe," said Sarker.

The aim of the IYA2009 is to stimulate worldwide interest, especially among young people, in astronomy and science under the central theme "The Universe, Yours to Discover".

IYA2009 events and activities will promote a greater appreciation of the inspirational aspects of astronomy that embody an invaluable shared resource for all countries.

According to Catherine Cesarsky, the President of the International Astronomical Union (IAU), "We are delighted that the International Year of Astronomy 2009 gives a chance to the astronomers from the IAU member countries to reach out to the rest of the world and share the new knowledge and excitement of today’s astronomy."

The International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) was proclaimed by the United Nations on 20 December 2007. (ANI)