Under One Sky: The IAU Centenary Symposium (IAU S349)

This book chronicles a century of the International Astronomical Union's history, featuring lectures, personal stories, and insights into its future direction.

The Under One Sky: The IAU Centenary Symposium (IAU S349) offers a comprehensive overview of the International Astronomical Union's (IAU) history spanning a century. This volume captures the essence of the symposium held during the IAU's General Assembly in Vienna in 2018. It features plenary lectures from notable figures such as Malcolm Longair, who discusses the evolution of astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology over the last hundred years, and Catherine Cesarsky, who reflects on the IAU's significant historical milestones. The inclusion of reminiscences from past IAU presidents and general secretaries adds a personal touch, providing insights into the organization's journey through the decades.

The book delves into the relationships between the IAU and various geographical regions, highlighting pivotal moments such as the aftermath of World War I and the 'China crisis' when China withdrew from the Union in 1960. Through these narratives, readers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by the IAU in fostering international collaboration in the field of astronomy. Additionally, the internal structures of the IAU are explored, alongside trends in astronomical publishing and education, showcasing the evolution of the scientific community.

Concluding with a forward-looking perspective from the current president, Ewine van Dishoeck, Under One Sky: The IAU Centenary Symposium (IAU S349) not only commemorates the past but also envisions the future of the IAU as it continues to advance astronomical sciences globally.