The Office of Astronomy for Development has published the Annual Report for 2024-25. It covers highlights from the year including the first IAU General Assembly in Africa, two comments in Nature Astronomy, showcase of our 2024 projects, our (re)new(ed) full moon mashup webinar series and more. The report provides updates from the Regional Offices and […]
This post is a personal reflection by Dr. Joyful Mdhluli on her trip to Namibia. During the IAU Symposium 399 on Indigenous Astronomy in the Space Age (7–11 July 2025), I delivered a presentation on the role of astrotourism as a tool to promote dark and quiet skies. I discussed how astrotourism can serve as […]
In late September 2025, the OAD had the opportunity to host a special visitor, Professor Willy Benz, President of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). His visit, which took place from 25–28 September 2025, was filled with meaningful engagements that celebrated astronomy’s power to connect science, society, and development. Professor Benz was in South Africa as […]
OAD Fellow Dominic Vertue gave a presentation at the South African Association of Social Workers in Private Practice (SAASWIPP) 2025 conference. SAASWIPP is a professional association of social workers in private practice in South Africa. The presentation covered the role that astronomy can play in supporting mental health and well-being with adults. The session explored […]
The International Astronomical Union (IAU), the largest professional society of astronomers worldwide, is launching an astronomy-based initiative, through its Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), to drive entrepreneurship and support mental health. Termed the “Flagship Ecosystem”, the initiative will offer a wide range of support to people from around the world to engage in astronomy […]
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