The Office of Astronomy for Development participated in the Under One Sky global conference organised by Dark Sky international. With more than 1000 registered participants, the conference covered a wide range of topics from wildlife ecologists discussing the impact of light pollution on marine environments to tourism experts in the Middle East emphasizing the economic […]
Category Archives: Flagship 1
This project aimed to leverage the rich natural, heritage, and cultural resources of Tatacoa to enhance science education and astrotourism. Located in southern Colombia, Tatacoa is renowned for its clear skies, minimal light pollution, and diverse landscapes, making it an ideal site for astronomical observations and scientific tourism. We adopted a multi-faceted approach to achieve […]
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 […]
Recently, the Office of Astronomy for Development was featured twice on the Night Sky Tourist podcast, run by Vicky Derksen, a Dark Sky advocate dedicated to helping everyone discover the night sky in a whole new way. Joyful Mdhluli was interviewed for Episode 107- Mental Health & Stargazing where she shared the work being done […]
Dr Charles Takalana and Dr Joyful Mdhluli from the OAD attended World Tourism Day 2024 celebrations in the town of Carnarvon, South Africa on 26-27 September 2024. World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27 throughout the world as declared by the United Nations. The two day celebration consisted of four events: two events […]