Dr Mdhluli’s participation in a series of astrotourism-related workshops and strategic meetings during March 2026 contributed to advancing the role of astronomy in sustainable development, tourism innovation, and community engagement. These engagements provided opportunities to share the work of the OAD, strengthen partnerships, contribute to national and regional astrotourism strategies, and support capacity building for […]
Category Archives: Blog
02
Mar
Mar
Dark skies are not only a scientific resource, but a social, cultural, environmental, and economic asset. They are living heritage – essential to ecosystems, deeply woven into cultural identities, and increasingly recognised as catalysts for sustainable livelihoods through responsible tourism. Artificial light at night continues to increase globally, washing out the stars and disrupting natural […]
12
Feb
Feb
From 8-12 December 2025, Dr Mdhluli participated in the Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society workshop hosted by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the SKA Observatory in Vienna. The workshop brought together international stakeholders from science, policy, development, and civil society to explore how dark and quiet skies can be protected in an […]
20
Oct
Oct
We may have missed the Full Moon, but we’re definitely not going to miss the opportunity to come together! This October, the Full Moon Mashup has been transformed into a New Moon Mashup. Dr. John Goldsmith will be joining us on October 22, 2025, to deliver a talk titled “Astrophotography Inspiring a Creative World.” He will explore how he […]
astrotourism, Blog, News
New Publication in Nature Astronomy Highlights Global Benefits of Exploring the Universe
05
Jul
Jul
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” […]