These are global programmes of activities centred on a specific theme and are some of the projects that will help to achieve the IYA2009’s main goals.

1. 100 Hours of Astronomy
2. The Galileoscope
3. Cosmic Diary
4. Portal to the Universe
5. She is an Astronomer
6. Dark Skies Awareness
7. Astronomy and World Heritage (Universal treasures)
8. Galileo Teacher Training Programme
9. Universe Awareness (One place in the Universe)
10. From Earth to the Universe (The beauty of science)
11. Developing Astronomy Globally (Astronomy for all)