Astronomical Public Activities in Armenia

Abstract

The Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO) founded by the outstanding scientist Viktor Ambartsumian in 1946 is one of the famous astronomical centers in the world, and particularly in the Eurasian area. Along with large scientific, scientific-organizational, and educational activities, public outreach is also very active. The paper gives an overview of BAO public activities in Armenia and in the region. We emphasize the significance of public activities in raising awareness among public on the topics of astronomy and science in general. BAO serves as a regional center for the IAU initiative Astronomy for Development and hosts the IAU South West and Central Asian (SWCA) ROAD, which has a number of activities, including many public ones.