International Astronomical Union

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is a nonprofit international nongovernmental organization founded in Brussels in 1919 and legally domiciled in Paris. It brings together national astronomical communities and professional astronomers to advance astronomy through international cooperation, scientific meetings, divisions, commissions, working groups, publications, education, outreach, and development. The IAU also coordinates internationally agreed astronomical conventions and nomenclature, including the naming of celestial bodies and surface features, and supports specialist offices and centres for astronomy development, education, heritage, and dark and quiet skies.