The International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) participated in the ongoing IAU Symposium on Indigenous Astronomy in the Space Age, highlighting the role of astronomy in sustainable development through astrotourism initiatives.
Dr. Joyful Mdhluli delivered a presentation on the OAD’s Astrotourism flagship project, outlining how astrotourism serves as a catalyst for local economic growth, while simultaneously promoting the protection of dark and quiet skies. The presentation emphasised practical resources developed by the OAD to support individuals, businesses, and observatories in integrating astronomy-based activities into tourism offerings.
A key focus was placed on fostering community-owned and bottom-up approaches, encouraging the integration of indigenous and scientific astronomy knowledge to create sustainable and inclusive tourism models. By promoting collaboration between observatories and surrounding communities, these initiatives aim to safeguard both the night sky and the cultural heritage associated with it.
In addition, John Goldsmith and Quinton Tucker, representatives from the first OAD-funded astrotourism project in Australia, presented their work on Australia’s Cultural Night Sky, showcasing how indigenous heritage can be meaningfully integrated into tourism experiences to enhance cultural awareness and economic benefits for local communities.
The symposium provided an important platform for dialogue on the intersection of astronomy, cultural heritage, and sustainable development, reinforcing the OAD’s commitment to advancing initiatives that create socioeconomic impact through astronomy.
Recordings of the Symposium are available here
