ESA images take you 'From Earth to the Universe'
'From Earth to the Universe' (FETTU) exhibitions aim to reach the attention of an audience who would not typically choose to engage with astronomy or science. Therefore the exhibitions will be displayed at venues that are not usually associated with science, such as, public parks and gardens, art museums, shopping centres and public transport stations.
ESA images for inspiration
Images from ESA spacecraft have been selected to be part of the collection for the 'From Earth to the Universe' exhibitions. These images were selected for their inspirational value and include:
- The Sun in ultraviolet from the space-based observatory SOHO, an image that clearly depicts energy and power in our local space neighbourhood.
- An unfamiliar, colourful Venus from one of ESA's flagship missions, Venus Express, taken in ultraviolet. Observing in these wavelengths allows for more detailed study of the thick and dynamic Venusian atmosphere.
- A selection from the ever awe-inspiring ESA/NASA Hubble Space Telescope repertoire has also been chosen.
The first 'From Earth to the Universe' exhibition is a success
A prototype of the exhibition was put on display outside at the historic Albert Docks in Liverpool, UK, from 7 – 29 June 2008. During this period scores of visitors were taken on a visual journey of more than 13 billion light years into the vast expanse of space.
This first International Year of Astronomy 'From Earth to the Universe' exhibition presented 48 stunning images of space, including an image from SOHO's Extreme Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (EIT) of the Solar Corona and spectacular deep space views from the Hubble Space Telescope of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, a quasar, and ultra deep field galaxies.
Taster exhibition at the International Year of Astronomy opening ceremony
The official launch to the International Year of Astronomy will take place on 15 and 16 January 2009 at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Headquarters in Paris. Many notable attendees are expected, including Nobel Prize winners, eminent scientists, government ministers, members of royal families as well as 200 students, selected by national organisations involved in IYA2009. During the two-day event the breath and depth of astronomy will be featured, including a six image sample of the inspiring 'From Earth to the Universe' Exhibition. Two images taken by the ESA/NASA Hubble Space Telescope will be included in the exhibition at the opening ceremony.
View 'From Earth to the Universe' in ESA Member States
'From Earth to the Universe' exhibitions will be taking place in several ESA member states throughout 2009. Each country participating in the International Year of Astronomy has a Single Point of Contact who is responsible for coordinating events across their nation. To find out the latest information about where and when exhibitions will be on view, get in touch with the Single Point of Contact for the relevant ESA Member State (see link in right-hand menu.)