Author Archives: joy

OAD at Communicating Astronomy with the Public Conference (CAP2024)

The OAD team participated in the 2024 Communicating Astronomy with the Public Conference (CAP2024), with four abstracts accepted. The submissions included one oral presentation, a 60-minute workshop, and two posters. Flagship Coordinator Dr. Joyful Mdhluli attended in person, while OAD Fellows Dominic Vertue and Samyukta Manikumar participated virtually. Dr. Joyful Mdhluli, on behalf of the […]

IAU Astronomy Outreach, Development and Education (ODE) Prizes

IAU Press Release The IAU Astronomy Outreach, Development and Education (ODE) Prizes have been created with generous funding from IAU Past President Ewine van Dishoeck. The three awards recognise individuals and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to the fields of astronomy outreach, development and education. The OAD is pleased to share that the 2024 prize winners are […]

Introducing Guided Meditation with an Astronomical Twist: A Collaboration Between the OAD and Mark Westmoquette

The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is excited to present a new series of guided meditation sessions, created in partnership with renowned mindfulness practitioner Mark Westmoquette. This unique collection of six sessions is available for free online, offering a harmonious blend of relaxation techniques and astronomy education.  Our series features six distinct guided meditations, […]

Astro4dev Mashups: Astronomy and Mental Health

Lea esta información en español There’s been some new work happening in the astronomy community around the potential benefits of astronomy for mental health. See, for example, this blog by OAD fellows Sandra Benitez Herrera and Armine Patatanyan. The OAD organized an online mashup session to explore other ideas around this theme, and hear from […]