The Andean Regional Office of Astronomy for Development will host the V Workshop de Astronomía en los Andes from 22–25 September 2025 at Universidad CESMAG in Pasto, Colombia. Under the theme “Communities committed to development through astrotourism,” this international, multidisciplinary gathering will bring together astronomers, educators, tourism operators, and community leaders to explore how astronomy […]
Author Archives: joy
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 […]
Astronomy not only explores the universe but promotes, among others, gender equity, mental well-being, entrepreneurship, employment, and skills development. A new article published in Nature Astronomy underscores how the exploration of the universe is not only scientifically compelling but also socially and economically beneficial. The comment titled “Astronomy as a strategic driver for sustainable development” […]
In the recent issue of the IAU Office of Outreach’s Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal (CAP Journal), it is demonstrated how astronomy outreach can be a powerful tool for driving societal change. One standout article, “Navigating New Frontiers: Developing an Evaluation Model for a Local and Civic-Led Outreach Project in Mexico” by Ana Magdalena […]
Members of the OAD team participated in the National Astro-Tourism Broader Stakeholder Workshop held on 2–3 April 2025 in Carnarvon, Northern Cape, South Africa. Hosted by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the workshop focused on the implementation of South Africa’s Astro-Tourism Strategy. The two-day event brought together stakeholders […]





