Dark skies are not only a scientific resource, but a social, cultural, environmental, and economic asset. They are living heritage – essential to ecosystems, deeply woven into cultural identities, and increasingly recognised as catalysts for sustainable livelihoods through responsible tourism. Artificial light at night continues to increase globally, washing out the stars and disrupting natural […]
Category Archives: 2026
2026, News, Press releases
IAU OAD and RIIS Partner to Advance Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainable Development Across Africa
23
Feb
Feb
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Cape Town, South Africa – 23 February 2026. The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), a partnership of the National Research Foundation (NRF) with the International Astronomical Union (IAU) under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RIIS to establish a […]
20
Feb
Feb
Source: National Research Foundation For immediate release20 February 2026 The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), a partnership of the National Research Foundation (NRF) under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and the International Astronomical Union (IAU), is delighted to announce that 10 African projects have been selected to receive funding to advance […]
2026, News
Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Astronomy as a Catalyst for Development
11
Feb
Feb
By Dr Joyful Mdhluli, OAD Flagship Coordinator The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to recognise the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. Celebrated annually on February 11, it aims to promote full and equal access to participation in […]
29
Jan
Jan
source: IAU The International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) has concluded its 14th annual call for proposals, and 18 projects will receive funding in 2026 to use astronomy to further sustainable development. The OAD is pleased to announce that 18 new projects around the world will receive grants to promote sustainable […]