source: Stellenbosch University As mental health challenges continue to escalate globally, the International Astronomical Union Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative that leverages the cosmos. By partnering with public health researchers, the OAD is unveiling novel ways in which astronomy experiences can enhance emotional wellbeing, reduce stress, and foster […]
Author Archives: Ram Venugopal
2025, Australasia + Oceania, Australia’s Cultural Night Sky: Culture
Video: Australia’s Cultural Night Sky
08
Dec
Dec
Koya Aboriginal Corporation and Dr John Goldsmith / Celestial Visions have released a film of their project, “Australia’s Cultural Night Sky: Culture, Creativity and Community at Lake Ballard, Western Australia”. The video documents the journey and activities of 12 Aboriginal high-school students, visiting the remote, dark-sky location of Lake Ballard, in the Goldfields region of […]
06
Nov
Nov
On the occasion of the UN World Science Day for Peace and Development on November 10, the International Astronomical Union Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) is organising a special online event to highlight real-life examples of science in action at the grassroots level. The event, titled “Science in Action: Grassroots Pathways to Development”, […]
Astronomy for mental health, News
Connecting Astronomy and Mental Wellbeing in Kimberley, South Africa
27
Oct
Oct
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, Dominic Vertue from the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) engaged Grade 9 learners at the Maths and Science Leadership Academy (MSLA) in Kimberley, South Africa in a session titled “Under the Same Sky: Astronomy for Mental Health.” The talk explored how experiences of awe, reflection, […]
22
Oct
Oct
An initiative of the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) and Stellenbosch University (SU). From 17–19 October 2025, members of the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) and Stellenbosch University’s CoCREATE Health Hub gathered in Sutherland on a research trip to study how astronomy experiences can support mental health and family connection/cohesion. This […]
