Category Archives: 2025

Astro4Dev at the AfAS 2025 Conference

The OAD will be hosting a special session at the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Conference and General Assembly 2025, taking place from March 23–28, 2025, hosted by the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Gauteng. The session is scheduled for March 24, from 16:30 to 18:00 UTC+2, and aims to be an engaging and impactful […]

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 […]