© 2024 IAU General Assembly 2024 – Cape Town
#AfricaLookUp Campaign
The primary goal of the #AfricaLookUp Campaign is to inspire a mindset of active engagement and appreciation, urging individuals to go beyond casual observation and truly embrace the profound beauty and significance of the night skies of Africa.
This campaign seeks to motivate people throughout the continent to pause, gaze at the night skies, and appreciate the magnificence of our shared African skies, while drawing inspiration from the marvels of the universe.
Objectives
Literal meaning: the campaign aims to inspire individuals to take a moment to truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty and marvels of the sky. It encourages people not only to glance at the skies but to truly observe and value the awe-inspiring wonders they behold and to share their experience with others. By engaging in this simple act, it is hoped that curiosity will flourish, leading to a deeper appreciation and passion for the field of astronomy across the continent.
Figurative meaning: #AfricaLookUp campaign goes beyond its literal interpretation. While it still encourages people to observe the skies, it symbolises a call to actively seek, appreciate and share the extraordinary aspects of life, just as one would gaze at the vast expanse of the African sky. It prompts individuals to cultivate a mindset of wonder, curiosity, and appreciation, not only towards astronomy but also towards the beauty, diversity, and richness that exists in the world around them. By looking up and embracing a positive outlook, the campaign seeks to foster resilience, determination, and a belief in the possibility of a brighter future.
Showcasing Africa’s potential: The #AfricaLookUp campaign serves as a platform to showcase Africa’s immense potential in the field of astronomy and beyond. It aims to highlight various aspects such as the development of infrastructure, research achievements, and the rich history of indigenous African communities’ relationship with astronomy. Additionally, the campaign seeks to capture the breathtaking landscapes, astronomical images and any other artistic expression inspired by different regions of Africa.
Through this campaign, the intention is to demonstrate Africa’s capabilities to the world, shifting the prevailing narrative and dispelling misconceptions. The campaign also extends an invitation to individuals worldwide to participate and contribute by sharing their own experiences and encounters with astronomy in Africa, as well as their interactions with its people. By doing so, the campaign strives to showcase Africa’s diversity, cultural richness, and the wealth of opportunities it holds.
In essence, #AfricaLookUp endeavours to change the narrative about Africa, shedding light on its vast potential and inspiring global recognition that Africa is more than what is often portrayed or perceived.