Connecting Astronomy, Tourism, Culture, and Development
Astrotourism is increasingly emerging as a powerful way to connect astronomy with sustainable development, cultural heritage, education, and local economic opportunities. Across the world, astronomy-inspired tourism initiatives are helping communities engage with the night sky while creating meaningful social impact.
To celebrate and strengthen this growing community, the International Astronomical Union Office of Astronomy for Development will host an online Astrotourism Community Exchange 2026, bringing together current and past OAD-funded projects, tourism practitioners, researchers, educators, cultural practitioners, and anyone interested in using astronomy as a tool for development.
The 90-minute online event will provide a space for:
- Networking and collaboration
- Sharing best practices and lessons learned
- Exploring challenges and opportunities in astrotourism
- Highlighting useful resources and tools
- Supporting prospective applicants for the upcoming 2026 OAD funding call
Participants will hear short presentations from astrotourism projects working in diverse contexts around the world, followed by an interactive community discussion on topics such as sustainable tourism, Indigenous and cultural astronomy, community engagement, partnerships, and long-term impact.
Astrotourism initiatives supported through the OAD have demonstrated how astronomy can contribute to sustainable development in many different ways — from supporting rural economies and promoting dark-sky conservation, to inspiring young people through science engagement and preserving cultural knowledge connected to the night sky.
Whether you are already involved in astrotourism, exploring ideas for a future project, or simply curious about the intersection of astronomy and society, this event offers an opportunity to connect with a growing global network working under shared skies.
Who should attend?
- Current and former OAD-funded projects
- Prospective applicants to the 2026 call
- Tourism practitioners
- Educators and researchers
- Science communicators
- Cultural and heritage practitioners
- Anyone interested in astronomy for sustainable development
Event Details
Format: Online
Duration: 90 minutes
Date: 27 May 2026, 16:00 UTC
Registration: TBA
Interested in sharing your astrotourism experience during the event? Contact the OAD team or register your interest here.