AbstractSome interesting methods of popularizing astronomy in various countries were reviewed, and may be divided into two types: active and passive methods. Active methods include:
1.Astronomy in the countryside. Astronomical camps for both children and grownups, who normally live in towns, to learn basic astronomical facts. (Italy)2.Astro-puppets. Visitors to an observatory are greeted by puppets (Copernicus, Galileo, etc.) who not only give talks, but also converse with the audience. (Argentina)3.Hand-operated devices. A simple orrery showing the movement of the Earth, and other devices that viewers operate for themselves. (India)4.Graphical calendars. Several popular observatories collaborate to produce a yearly calendar showing planetary rising and setting times, etc. (Czechoslovakia)5.Amateur clubs. High-school and university students became so interested in astronomy that they formed their own group and now produce a magazine and carry out observing, etc. in a country where there is no professional astronomical institution. (Paraguay)6.An interdisciplinary approach. Various meetings and workshops are arranged to bring together astronomy, physics, biology, geology, etc., leading to a better understanding of modern science. (Japan)7.Astronomical competitions. Everything from children’s drawings to special tests and papers, sometimes connected with special events. Also awards for the best work of popularization in a given year. (Worldwide)Passive methods are far more traditional, and include planetarium shows, including special ones for pilgrims (India); special exhibitions; radio and television programmes; public lectures; popular magazines usually edited for special groups of readers. Finally, what about humorous astronomical stories or pictures, is that active or passive?
Methods of Popularizing Astronomy in Various Countries
