At the IAU-OAD we are exploring ways to use astronomy for sustainable socioeconomic development. Astrotourism, or tourism activities involving the night sky, have the potential to generate economic benefits in a way that both contribute to sustainable development and protect the natural resource of dark skies. Our Astrotourism flagship directly links astronomy and tourism, harnessing its potential […]
Category Archives: astrotourism
24
Jul
Jul
Astrotourism for Socioeconomic Development Traditionally, astrotourism has been a niche pursuit, centered around scientific exploration and specialized equipment. However, this narrow focus has limited its potential to drive socioeconomic development in rural communities. Our approach is a radical departure from the norm. We believe that by reimagining astrotourism as an extension of ecotourism and cultural […]
15
Jun
Jun
OAD Fellow Samyukta has written a brief article in the African Science Stars magazine on some factors to consider before starting up an astrotourism business. The special edition of the magazine is focused on astrotourism and its potential in Africa. Astrotourism falls under the OAD’s Flagship on ‘Sustainable, local socio-economic development through Astronomy’. So far, […]
2022, astrotourism, Beyond the Beach: Foundations for Caribbean Astrotourism, Latin America + Caribbean
Strengthening Connections Between Astronomy Observatory and Businesses
19
May
May
The aim of this project was to better integrate astronomy into tourism endeavors happening on the island of St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands to provide value added to existing businesses while providing a pipeline for students interested in the intersections between tourism and astronomy into these businesses as interns. Unfortunately, we discovered that […]
2023, astrotourism, Langkawians Guide Malaysians to the Stars , Southeast Asia
Overview: Langkawians Guide Malaysians to the Stars
10
Jan
Jan
Langkawi Island is Malaysia’s top tourist attraction but it was hit hard by the pandemic crisis. Even though the sector is recovering, many tourist guides are still struggling with financial stress. During the pandemic, they are not able to renew their tour guide badges due to money shortage while during post-pandemic, there are not sufficient […]