Category Archives: Flagship 2

Astronomy in Mental Health Workshop at SAASTEC 2024

At the recent SAASTEC 2024 conference, OAD’s Dominic Vertue hosted an “Astronomy in Mental Health” workshop. This session served as a pilot to explore how astronomy-inspired activities, such as a cosmic journey using a roll of toilet paper, can open doors for broader reflections on mental health and well-being. By engaging participants in a tactile […]

OAD Featured on Night Sky Tourist Podcast

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 […]

OAD Project Calls for Support To Rebuild Library Destroyed by Fire

A fire destroyed the Ninho das Águias Community Library, located in the community of Pavão, in the neighbourhood of Copacabana (RJ) in Brazil. The library has carried out important actions, since 2011, for children and young people in the region, including hosting the Closer to the Sky project funded by the IAU OAD. The project […]

Practical Look at Combining Astronomy and Mental Health

On June 4, 2024, a pioneering workshop took place at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), marking a significant step in integrating mental health with astronomy outreach and science communication. This transformative session, organized by the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), served as a pilot for the upcoming Communicating Astronomy with the Public (CAP) […]

Introducing Guided Meditation with an Astronomical Twist: A Collaboration Between the OAD and Mark Westmoquette

The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is excited to present a new series of guided meditation sessions, created in partnership with renowned mindfulness practitioner Mark Westmoquette. This unique collection of six sessions is available for free online, offering a harmonious blend of relaxation techniques and astronomy education.  Our series features six distinct guided meditations, […]