The International Year of Astronomy will kick off in January with “;star parties”; hosted by the Hawaiian Astronomical Society.

Volunteers will share their telescopes and knowledge with the public, offering rare views of the stellar neighborhood.

The year 2009 marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first use of the telescope.

The best viewing is expected at Dillingham Airfield in Mokuleia on Jan. 24 because it is the darkest location.

Other star parties will be held Jan. 3 and Jan. 31 at both Kahala Community Park and Waikele Community Park from sunset to about 9 p.m., weather permitting. The Kahala and Waikele events may be best suited for families with young children.

The public should review the security and other guidelines on the Astronomical Society's Web site before attending the stargazing at Dillingham Airfield, or contact club representatives for directions and timing.

Contacts include Chris Peterson, 956-3131, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), and Barry Peckham, 542-8658, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Space station

The International Space Station will be soaring brightly through Hawaii skies Jan. 9, passing above the planet Venus in the west around 8:19 p.m.

The space station is about 240 miles up but is visible when it reflects sunlight in dark skies. Details are available on Heavens Above Web site, www.heavens-above.com.