Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: International Astronomical Union (IAU), Statio Shiv Shakti, Jawahar Point
Mains level: NA
What is the news?
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) working group for Planetary System Nomenclature recently sanctioned the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, marking a significant milestone in planetary nomenclature.
About International Astronomical Union (IAU)
- The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
- Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
- It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
- IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.
Major Activities and Initiatives
- General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
- Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardizes the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
- Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
- Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.
Membership
- IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
- India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
- Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.
IAU Nomenclature Criteria
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About Statio Shiv Shakti’
- Prime Minister announced the name ‘Shiv Shakti’ for the Chandrayaan-3 landing site in August, 2023, reflecting the significance of Indian mythology and cultural heritage.
- It is located at the co-ordinates 69.373°S 32.319°E and lies between the lunar craters Manzinus C and Simpelius N.
- The name ‘Shiv Shakti’ symbolizes the masculine-feminine duality of nature, embodying strength and resolution, with a profound connection to India’s diverse cultural landscape.
| PM previously named the Chandrayaan-2 crash site ‘Tiranga point’, while former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam suggested ‘Jawahar Point’ for the Chandrayaan-1 impact probe landing site, reflecting a tradition of honoring national figures and symbols. |
PYQ:
2021: Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?
- Distances among stellar bodies do not change.
- Gravity of stellar bodies does not change.
- Light always travels in straight line.
- Speed of light is always same.
Practice MCQ:
Consider the following statements about International Astronomical Union (IAU):
- It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
- India is represented by the ISRO in the IAU.
Which of the given statements are correct?
- Only 1
- Only 2
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
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