Category Archives: 2025

Astro4dev Full Moon Mashup: Dr Daniel Mokhohlane – Impact of Mega Astronomy Infrastructures on rural development

Mega astronomy infrastructures, such as large telescopes and observatories, have a profound impact on rural development. The establishment of facilities like the South African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland has led to job creation and the growth of local businesses, including guesthouses catering to astrotourism. This influx not only stimulates the local economy but also […]

Exploring People’s Connection to the Natural World at Night

Have you ever found yourself gazing up at a star-strewn sky, listening to the chorus of nocturnal creatures, or simply soaking in the quiet mystery of the night? If the natural world after dark sparks your curiosity, the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) would love to hear from you. We’re excited to announce that […]

2025 OAD Steering Committee Meeting

The OAD Steering Committee had its annual meeting from the 5th to 7th February 2025. The meeting was hybrid with the Steering Committee members based in Cape Town joining the OAD team at the SAAO. The Steering Committee exercises general oversight of the activities of the OAD and its staff. It comprises 3 members nominated […]

IAU OAD and Partners to Support 13 Hackathons Globally in 2025 under the Hack4Dev collaboration

Big data hackathon

Hack4dev, a collaboration between the IAU OAD and partners, is pleased to announce that it will host 13 Data Science hackathons across 12 countries between February and April 2025. Hackathons will take place in Kenya, Ghana, Ethiopia, Botswana, South Africa, Madagascar, Rwanda, Namibia, Mozambique, India, Brazil, and Chile. The events will offer participants the opportunity […]

Astro4dev Full Moon Mashup: Anna Levin, Author of “Dark Skies”

The Astro4Dev Full Moon Mashups Are Back!!! We are thrilled to announce the return of the Astro4Dev Full Moon Mashups! These are monthly meetings that aim to explore what could come from brainstorming across disciplines about development challenges. We recognize that different fields have different strengths, and if brought together, they could have a positive […]