International Astronomical Union

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) was founded in 1919. With a total membership of 12,742 professional astronomers from 92 countries and a network of several hundred coordinators across our Offices and Centres across 133 countries and territories, the IAU is the global professional body for astronomers. Our mission is to promote and safeguard the science of astronomy in all its aspects, including research, communication, education and development, through international cooperation. Our individual Members are active researchers structured into Divisions, Commissions, and Working Groups at the Ph.D. level and beyond. For public engagement, international development, education and professional development of astronomy the IAU has dedicated offices: the Office for Astronomy Outreach, the Office of Astronomy for Development, the Office of Astronomy for Education, and the Office for Young Astronomers. The Center for the Protection of Dark and Quiet Skies focuses on policy and advocacy to protect our night skies while the Minor Planets Center is responsible for the identification, designation and orbit computation for minor planets, comets and outer irregular natural satellites of the major planets.