Celebrating four centuries of looking up at the stars

Space · Published 22 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Experience how the White House hosted a celestial celebration to mark a major milestone in human exploration and scientific history.

Astronomy Night on the South Lawn brought together approximately 150 middle school students from Washington to explore the universe. Using over 20 telescopes provided by NASA and partner organizations, participants observed Jupiter, the moon, and specific stars while examining physical samples of meteorites and moon rocks.

The event served as a focal point for the International Year of Astronomy. The worldwide commemoration recognizes cultural and societal impacts occurring during the four centuries following Galileo's initial use of a telescope.

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