The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the highest governing body in astronomy, whose mission is to promote and safeguard the science of astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation. Membership is open to all professional PhD astronomers from around the world and there are currently over 8000 members.
For more information about the IAU, visit their website at http://www.iau.org/.
IAU Activities & Organisation:
The IAU run a variety of activities, including meetings, publications, educational activities, naming new objects, keeping track of environmental challenges to astronomy and research Near Earth Objects.
Divisions, Commissions & Working Groups:
The IAU has 12 Divisions, 40 Commissions and 73 Working Groups covering all areas of astronomy.