Day 5

"Do single stars exist?" - This was the topic presented today to the participants of the Open International Astronomical Olympiad by the headperson of the jury, Oleg Malkov, who leads the Department of Physics of Stellar Systems at the Institute of Astronomy of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The astronomer explained that most stars are binary or multiple systems, with only about one-third of stars being single. As an example, he analyzed the 25 brightest celestial objects in the sky.

The process of studying stars and planetary systems is actively ongoing. For instance, this year it was discovered that one star, previously considered single, turned out to be a binary system, and the number of known binary stars is constantly growing.

"A year ago, I gave this lecture, and since then the situation has changed: more binary stars are being identified. Protostars often turn into binary systems or stars with planets, as happened with the Sun. Binarity is an important phenomenon not only among stars but also in galaxies and planetary systems. This lecture is important for budding astronomers because it helps them better understand our galaxy and the Universe," noted Oleg Malkov.

A rich excursion program was organized for the schoolchildren. The kids visited Sochi Park, a theme park located in the Olympic Park on the territory of Sirius.

"When I first visited the amusement park in Sirius, I couldn’t believe that an entertainment complex could be so colorful and full of fun! The roller coasters here are very safe, and riding them is a real pleasure. I was especially impressed by the ride with an amazing view of the sea," shares a participant from Myanmar, Hlwar Htet Tain.

Hlwar Htet Tain plans to pass on the experience and knowledge gained at the Open International Astronomical Olympiad to schoolchildren: "Sirius University is truly impressive. I dream of opening something similar in Myanmar because there are no such educational institutions in our country," she noted.