Day in History: January 12
Royal Astronomical Society On January 12, 1820, the Astronomical Society of London was founded to support astronomical research. Later the scientific society was renamed to Royal Astronomical Society. In 1831, the society received royal privileges from King William IV and acquired its modern name. In 1915, women gained access to society. The Society represents Great Britain in the International Astronomical Union. Its tasks are to promote the development of astronomy, geophysics, solar system research and related scientific disciplines. “Iskra” On January 12, 1943, Soviet troops launched Operation Iskra, as a result of which they managed to break the blockade of Leningrad. The operation that restored the connection of the besieged city with the country was preceded by four offensive operations undertaken by the troops of the Leningrad and Volkhov fronts with the aim of deblocking the city and liberating the occupied areas of the Leningrad region. The military significance of the