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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]