The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is a global effort initiated by the International Astronomical Union and UNESCO to help the citizens of the world rediscover their place in the Universe. It aims to convey the excitement of personal discovery, the pleasure of sharing knowledge about the Universe. The inspirational aspects of the IYA2009 aim to contribute to four of the UN Millennium Development goals: help to achieve universal primary education; help to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger; promote gender equality and empower women; develop a global partnership for development.