Roy Gould + Curtis Wong: A preview of the WorldWide Telescope

The transcript discusses the International Year of Astronomy and introduces the WorldWide Telescope, a new invention from Microsoft Research. The WorldWide Telescope integrates images from various telescopes to provide a comprehensive view of the universe, transforming how we perceive and teach astronomy. It allows users to explore the universe, guided by passionate astronomers, and create personalized tours. Curtis Wong from Microsoft elaborates on the project's dedication to Jim Gray and its potential to inspire learners of all ages. The WorldWide Telescope will be available as a free download, offering an interactive experience to explore the cosmos.

What significant anniversary is being celebrated in the International Year of Astronomy?

• 400th anniversary of Galileo's first telescope use

• 500th anniversary of the telescope

• 200th anniversary of the first space telescope

• 300th anniversary of the Milky Way discovery

What was the common belief about the universe in the 1920s?

• The universe was infinite

• The universe was expanding

• The Milky Way was the entire universe

• There were multiple galaxies

What is one of the key features of the WorldWide Telescope?

• It simulates alien life forms

• It predicts future astronomical events

• It provides guided tours by passionate astronomers

• It allows users to create their own universe

How can users interact with the WorldWide Telescope?

• By creating and sharing their own tours

• By programming new features

• By controlling real telescopes

• By simulating space missions

What is the significance of the WorldWide Telescope according to the speaker?

• It will only be useful for professional astronomers

• It will replace all educational tools

• It will change how we see ourselves in the universe

• It will make astronomy obsolete

What is the WorldWide Telescope dedicated to?

• Isaac Newton

• Galileo Galilei

• Albert Einstein

• Jim Gray

What is the main goal of the WorldWide Telescope project?

• To replace traditional telescopes

• To inspire kids to explore and learn about the universe

• To create a virtual reality space experience

• To predict astronomical phenomena