Planetariums worldwide unite for 100 Hours of Astronomy 2025, marking a century of celestial education and global cosmic connection (Photo: Pinterest)
From the 2nd to the 5th of October 2025, the world will look skyward as astronomy lovers and institutions unite for a worthy cause on a global scale. The International Astronomical Union Office for Astronomy Outreach and the International Planetarium Society will hold a 100-hour marathon of astronomy events to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first planetarium. The campaign, once in a century will celebrate the legacy of planetariums and at the same time, inspire the next generation of skywatchers.
The 100 Hours of Astronomy is another flagship outreach activity from the IAU OAO since it has gained an annual tradition. This year is particularly opportune as it celebrates a full century of planetary evolution from dome projections to digital sky shows. The IAU and IPS want to celebrate the cultural and educational significance of planetariums around the world will shining the light on their role in making astronomy accessible to all.
The theme 100 Years of Planetarium calls for community involvement, institution programing and education outreach via local events and globally broadcasted events.
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The celebration will kick start on October 2, by presenting a 360-degree live streaming of the exciting Big Astronomy show on YouTube, an immersive program showcasing the diverse people and places that run modern astronomy. Following the show, Ardis Herrold from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory will be talking about the transformative role that the observatory plays in the realm of ground-based astronomy.
A 24-hour, non-stop live link from all the planetariums around the world will be on the global stage on October 4, with the Akashi Municipal Planetarium in Japan leading the way. This segment will allow planetariums, regardless of size, to exchange greetings, experiences or brief presentations and highlighting their unique view of the cosmos.
Staying true to its goal of worldwide outreach the IAU and IPS encourage world participation and regardless of financial and subtle scales. Local community organizers are encouraged to Host local events that can be registered in the IAU Astronomy Events Calendar.
Share material online with the hashtags #100HoursofAstronomy, #100YearsofthePlanetarium and #IAUOutreach. Engaging with IAU and IPS for possible partnerships.
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This celebration indicates that everyone across the universe can be involved in contemplating the same universe.
The IAU, established in 1919 is the recognized authority internationally on astronomy research, education and naming of celestial regions. Its Office for Astronomy Outreach, in conjunction with the National Astronomical Observatory in Japan, advances the efforts to have astronomy globally inclusive and accessible.
Through events like the 100 Hours of Astronomy the IAU and IPS are not only celebrating the past but also building a future where everyone owns the stars.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Event details are subject to change based on official announcements or updates.
