The African Astronomical Society 3rd Annual Conference Special Session

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The African Astronomical Society 3rd Annual Conference Special Session – IAU General Assembly 2024 in Cape Town: Gearing up for the GA in 2024

The African Astronomical Society’s third annual conference took place in Johannesburg, South Africa at the University of the Witwatersrand Origins Center from 13 – 17 March 2023. This meeting is especially important for the African community as it provides an opportunity for astronomers across Africa and around the world to engage, network, and reconnect.

On Monday, 13 March, the National Organising Committee of the IAU General Assembly 2024 arranged a Special Session to update the community on the progress of the very first General Assembly on African soil which is set to take place in August 2024.

Chairing the session was Professor Vanessa McBride, co-chair of the National Organising Committee(NOC). The opening talk was then given by the inspirational Dr. Khotso Mokhele, former President and CEO of The National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF), who played a major role in securing support for the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) Project, hosted at the South African Astronomical Observatory, the success of this also contributed to South Africa being awarded to host a huge portion of the Square Kilometer Array (SKA), which will be the largest radio telescope ever built. In Africa, the SKA will be built in South Africa and 8 other countries. In addition, Dr. Mokhele played an important role in South Africa being awarded the bid to host the IAU General Assembly 2024.

What followed were presentations by various committee chairs, first by the co-chair of the NOC, Dr. Charles Takalana, Professor James Chibueze, chair of the Science Committee, Dr. Sally Macfarlane, co-chair of the Outreach, Development, and Education Committee and Mr. Prospery Simpemba, co-chair of the Africa committee.

Some of the main points echoed in the session were the following:

  • Africa should show science that is impactful and significant. It is not enough to host IAU-GA if there won’t be good quality science to share.
  • with all the astronomy developments in Africa, it is of utmost importance to prioritize the empowerment and development of the African people, let the science that we do and the achievements we celebrate also reflect in our societies and benefit everyone in our communities.
  • several planned activities rely on the power of collaborations, partnerships, knowledge sharing, and most importantly, proactive members willing to commit their time, hearts, and energy to the realization of this goal.

The African community is certainly excited about this big event and all hands are on board to ensure that this is one General Assembly the world will never forget, but most importantly, the community is working on various activities and projects to ensure that IAU-GA2024 leaves a lasting legacy to the lives of the African people and the development of astronomy in our beautiful continent.

We are looking at the year ahead with a bold and audacious vision.

It’s time for Africa!

Africa-Europe collaborations at EAS2023

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Join us at Special Session 1 of the European Astronomical Society meeting, from 10 – 14 July 2023 in Krakow, Poland. Submit your abstract by 1 March 2023, as we build science, training and development collaborations towards 2024 and beyond.

Key topics of discussion during the Special Session include:

  • Science and infrastructure developments to foster Africa-Europe collaboration
  • Joint initiatives in education and outreach
  • Astronomy and its impact on sustainable development goals
  • Engagement with policymakers

Special session at the African Astronomical Society Annual Meeting

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The special session builds on the progress made at the Forum on Astronomy in Africa in October 2021. The programme is as follows:

15:15 Welcome & overview
15:25 Update from Science Committee
15:30 Update from Africa Committee
15:35 Update from Outreach Committee
15:40 Call for proposals to implement Vision 2024
15:50 Discussion
16:10  Meeting summary
16:15 Close

How to join the session:

Gearing up for the GA in 2024
Wednesday 16 March 2022, 15:15 CAT
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84607503107?pwd=anFKMGJHNWw0L095RERnRnUxVUwzUT09
Physical venue: SAAO auditorium

Photo by cottonbro CGI from Pexels

Africa Forum Participants List

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(in alphabetical order by name – total of 430 registered participants – visualize the distribution on map below list)

Name Institution Country
Abbas Endisha Misurata university Libya
Abdelhafid Bani Naec morocco Morocco
Abdoulaye Ba Ba Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar Sénégal
ABDU ALI AMEDE Woldia University Ethiopia
Abhijeet  Bhardwaj American Physics Society India
Aboulahris Maria HAssan II University Morocco
Abraham  Akinwale International Space University Nigeria
Abraham Hamilton-Etrue Gyaase Senior High School Ghana
Abunie Gezahegn Ethiopian Space Science Technology Institution Ethiopia
Adaeze  Ibik University of Toronto Canada
Adahchour Abderrahim LPHEA  Morocco
AHANHANZO Pide Aristide Club Astronomique Orion-Benin Bénin
Ahmad Hamwi Ignitos Space Zambia
AJ Link Center for Air and Space Law USA
Ajith Sampath Univerisity of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
Albert Wash Samuel National Space Research and Development Agency Nigeria
Alemiye Mamo Yacob ESSTI/EA-ROAD Ethiopia
Allen Mhagama University of Dodoma Tanzania
Amelia Sique Eduardo Mondlane University Moçambique
Amidou Sorgho CSIC-IAA Spain
Amith Rajpal Astronomical Society of Southern Africa, Durban Centre South Africa
Amjed Khurwat Roaya for Astronomy and Space Applications Foundation Libya
Ando  Ratsimbazafy Prince George Community College United States
Andoniaina Rajaonarivelo Haikintana Astronomy Association Madagascar
Ange Cynthia Umuhire Rwanda Space Agency Rwanda
Anke van Dyk UCT/SAAO South Africa
Anna Scaife University of Manchester UK
Anne Verbiscer University of Virginia United States
Annttoinette Anita Vuhya Meru University of Science and Technology Kenya
Anthony Mietas NRF/SAAO South Africa
Armine Patatanyan Office of Astronomy for Development Armenia
Arvind  Ramessur Deputy IAU NOC Mauritius  Mauritius
Arwin Neil Baichoo  IAU NOC Mauritius Team Member  Mauritius
Auke Slotegraaf Centre for Astronomical Heritage (CfAH) South Africa
Ayenew Yehualaw Kotebe Metropolitan University Ethiopia
Ayman  Ahmed EgSA Egypt
Ayodeji Ibitoye University of KwaZulu Natal Nigeria
Bai Bai Student  Taiwan
Balina  Galata Secondary school Ethiopia
Bashir Yusuf National Space Research and Development Agency, Abuja.. Nigeria
Benard Nsamba Kyambogo University Uganda
BENHIDA Abdelmajid Université cadi AYYad Morocco
Benjamin Ayantunji National Space Research and Development Agency Nigeria
Benkhaldoun Zouhair  Cadi Ayyad University, Oukaimeden Observatory, Morocco Maroc
Bernard Fanaroff None South Africa
Betelehem Bilata Woldeyes Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Birhan Haile UCT Ethiopia
Bisi Bernard  Ogunwale Ariel University Israel Israel
Bonaventure  Okere Centre for Basic Space Science, Nsukka Nigeria
Bonita de Swardt SARAO South Africa
BOP Cheikh Tidiane Université Cheikh Anta Diop Senegal
Boskri Abdelkarim  Cadi ayyad university Morocco
Bounhir Aziza UCA University Morocco
Bradley Frank SARAO/IDIA/UCT South Africa
Brandon Engelbrecht Univeristy of the Western Cape South Africa
Bret Yotti University of Cape Town South Africa
Brian Bichang’a South African Astronomical Observatory Kenya
Brian van Soelen University of the Free State South Africa
Brown  Joshua Rivers State University Nigeria
Bruno Henrique da Silva Bruno federal university of uberlandia Brasil
Bryceson  Msangi Babati District Council Tanzania
Bynish Paul SAAO South Africa
Camilo  Delgado-Correal Planetarium of Bogotá Colombia
Caroline Ungersbock Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme NPC South Africa
Carringtone  Kinyanjui Technical University of Kenya Kenya
Ceren Ulusoy BIUST Botswana
Charles Takalana African Astronomical Society South Africa
Chein Kuo The high school of NTNU Taiwan
CHENNAOUI Hasnaa Hassan II University of Casablanca Maroc
Chikondi  Kapote Astronomy club of Malawi Malawi
Chimwemwe  Kapichi  University of Malawi Malawi 
Chinyelu Dieyi NIGCOMSAT Nigeria
Chioma Franklynda Okany Centre for Basic Space Science Nsukka, NASRDA Nigeria Nigeria
Chippo Mchenga Mchenga Malawi astronomy Club Malawi
Chris  de Coning  Private  South Africa
Chris Stewart Astronomical Society of Southern Africa (ASSA South Africa
Christian Hettlage SAAO/SALT South Africa
Chukwujekwu Ofodum Centre for Basic Space Science Nigeria
Cláudio  Paulo Universidade Eduardo Mondlane Mozambique
Clifford  Nxomani National Research Foundation South Africa
Daniel Cunnama South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
Daniel Egbo Egbo UCT/SAAO South Africa
David Buckley SAAO South Africa
Declan Peter KIRRANE AERAP ISC Belgium
Dejene Zewdie Woldeyes Universidad Diego Portales Ethiopia
Denis Gachuhi Wachira  University of Nairobi  Kenya
Dennis Kiyeng SPARC Kenya
Derck Smits University of South Africa South Africa
Dereje Wakgari Amente Wollega University, PhD scholar at Osmania University, India Ethiopia
Desta Fekede  Geleta Dire Dawa University / International Centre for Theoretical Physics Ethiopia
Dianna Martin  Martin  Northern cape tourism South africa
Dinah Mangope University of the Free State South Africa
Dinka Williet Casro Cameroon
Doreen Agaba Space Technology Agency Ltd  Uganda
Douglas Bullis Astronomical Society of Southern Africa South Africa
Edgar  Temu The University of Dodoma. Tanzania.
Edward  Jurua Mbarara University of Science and Technology  Uganda 
Effioanwan Etim Astronomers Without Borders Nigeria Network Nigeria
EL HALKOUJ  Thami Cadi Ayad University  Morocco 
Eli Kasai University of Namibia Namibia
Elizabeth Naluminsa South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
ELY CHEIKH  Ould Mohamed Navee Mauritanian Association for Astronomy Mauritania
Emmanuel  NGONGA The University of Zambia Zambia
Emmanuel Obarafo Federal University of Technology Akure Nigeria
Emmanuel Proven-Adzri Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute Ghana
Encarni Romero Colmenero SAAO/SALT South Africa
Endeshaw Lake  Endeshaw Lake  T. ESSTI Ethiopia
Eric Kamau Maina Maina Rhodes University South Africa 
Esther Mungalaba  The University of Zambia  Zambia
Etienne Bonnassieux University of Bologna Italy
Etsegenet Alemu Ethiopia Space Science and Technology Instititute Ethiopia
Etteyeb Nejmeddine Tunisian Astonomical Society  Tunisia
EUGENE  OKWEI  UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS/KOMENDA COLLEGE OF EDUCATION  UK/GHANA 
Eugene Idogbe Centre for Basic Space Science-NASRDA Nigeria
EVARISTUS IYIDA University of Nigeria Nsukka Nigeria
Ezabo Baron DSAi Uganda Uganda
Fabio Luchsinger University of the Western Cape South Africa
Fatai Ayoola Shodunke Shodunke  University of Abuja, Abuja  Nigeria
Fatima Laouar Mathematics and subatomic physics laboratory LPMS Constantine Algeria Algeria
Feraol Fana Dirirsa ESSTI Ethiopia
Feven Markos Hunde Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute (ESSTI)  Ethiopia
Fouad  Sefyani Lakrizi Astronomical Oukaimeden Observatory  Cadi Ayyad University  Morocco
Fouad Sefyani Astronomical Oukaimeden Observatory. LPHEA. Cadi Ayyad University  
Frances Ngozika  Anekwe  Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Anambra  State Nigeria 
Francis  Chizea National Space Research and Development Agency Nigeria
Francis Omondi Univeristy of Nairobi Kenya
Francisco Fenias  Macucule Eduardo Mondlane university Mozambique
Francois Zinserling ASSA – Durban South Africa
Fred  David Eclectics International Kenya
GAD  EL-QADY National Research Institute of Astronomy and geophysics (NRIAG) Egypt
Garret Cotter University of Oxford United Kingdom
Genevieve Marshall International Astronomical Union Netherlands
Getahun Gezu getish Kotebe Metropolitan University Ethiopia
Getinet  Ayane Kotebe Metropolitan University Ethiopia
Ghazali  Mohammed Amateur Astronomer  Uganda
Ghion Ashenafi  Getahun Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Giorgio  Senesi CNR – Istituto per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Plasmi (ISTP) – sede di Bari Italia
Glenda  Snowball SAAO South Africa
Glober  Meshack Space Partnerships and Research Company  Kenya
Gloria Raharimbolamena University of Antananarivo Madagascar
Grace Djan North West University South Africa
Guennoun Meryem Faculty of science SEMLALIA Morocco 
Habeeb  Adenle Lagos State University Nigeria
Hana Bhorat ASSA South Africa
Hanna Nieber Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology Germany
Hannah Worters SAAO South Africa
Hassane Darhmaoui  Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane Morocco 
Hengxing Pan UWC South Africa
Hide Agata National Astronomical Observatory of Japan Japan
Hiiko Katjaita University of Namibia  Namibia
Hilda Hermann Independent Researcher UK / South Africa
Hubert  Mathebula  DSI South Africa 
Humbulani Mudau Department of Science and Innovation South Africa
Ikechukwu  Obi NASRDA-Centre for Basic pace Science (CBSS) Nigeria
Ilani Loubser North-West University South Africa 
Imen Titouhi  Tunis Science City  Tunisia
Imogen Whittam University of Oxford/University of the Western Cape United Kingdom
IRANKUNDA Eugene Rwanda Energy Group/Energy Development Corporation Limited ((REG/EDCL) Rwanda
Irene Irene professor high school france
Isaac HABUMUGISHA KABALE UNIVERSITY UGANDA
Isaac Mutie Technical University of Kenya Kenya
Isibabale Qhoboshiyane University of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
Ismael Moumen Université Laval/CFHT Canada
Itumeleng Monageng UCT/SAAO South Africa
Jabiri Abdelhadi Cadi Ayyad University / Marrakech  Morocco 
Jacinta Delhaize UCT South Africa
Jack Radcliffe University of Pretoria South Africa
Jagat  Acharjee Assam University India
Jamal  Mimouni University of Constantine 1, Constantine Algeria
James Chibueze North-West University South Africa
Jane  Abangwu University of Nigeria, Nsukka Nigeria
Jean-Baptiste KIKWAYA ELUO Vatican Observatory Italy
Jeremy Main South African Radio Astronomy Observatory South Africa
Jerusalem  Teklu Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute (ESSTI) Ethiopia 
Jessie Ndaba Astrofica Technologies South Africa
Jessymol  K Thomas SAAO South Africa
Johan  Theron Private South Africa
Johan Knapen Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias Spain
Johanne Naa Ayeley Ekue University Of Ghana Ghana
John Menzies SAAO South Africa
JOHN ODIRACHUKWU OKEKE OKEKE African University of Science and Technology Nigeria
Jones Chilufya University of Zambia Zambia
José Fernando Mandeur Díaz  Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes Mexico
José Miguel Rodriguez Espinosa Instituto de astrofísica de Andalucía Spain
Josep M. Trigo-Rodríguez Institute of Space Sciences (CSIC-IEEC) Catalonia, Spain
Joseph  Omojola  University of the Witwatersrand  South Africa 
Joseph Mwatukange Mwatukange University of Namibia Namibia
Joseph Obu University of Calabar, Calabar Nigeria
Joshua  Kalognia  Institute for Scientific and Technological Information  Ghana 
Joshua Attih University of Ghana Ghana
Josiah Faniyi Ministry of Education, Oyo State, Nigeria Nigeria
Joy  Olayiwola NASRDA/AWB Nigeria
Joyce Imara Nchom Nigerian Meteorological Agency  Nigeria
Julius Catabay University of the Philippines Philippines
Juma Deason Baraka Water Institute  Tanzania 
Kaab Mohamed Sultan Moulay Sliman University Morocco
Kabelo Kesebonye University of Kwa-Zulu Natal Botswana/South Africa
KAIRE Maram ASPA Sénégal
Kam S. Zacharie Université Joseph KI-ZERBO Burkina Faso
Kechil Kirkham IDIA South Africa
Keletso B. Dichaba BIUST Botswana
Kentaro Yaji National Institute for Fusion Science Japan
Kevin Govender IAU Office of Astronomy for Development South Africa
Kevin Rorke University of South Africa South Africa
Khadija El Bouchefry SARAO South Africa
Khalid Barkaoui Cadi Ayyad University Morocco
Khedidja DJEHA University of BLIDA1  Algeria
Khulu  Phasiwe South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) South Africa
Kimani Nyoike Leo Sky Africa Kenya
Kingsley Ahenkora-Duodu University of Leeds United Kingdom 
Kingsley Okpala University of Nigeria Nigeria
Kirubel Menberu Alemu Ethiopian Space Science Society  Ethiopia
Kleopas  Shiningayamwe University of Namibia Namibia
Kshitij Thorat University of Pretoria South Africa
Kumera  Assefa Addis Abab University Ethiopia
Kushal Khatiwada Amrit Campus, Tribhuvan University Nepal
Kwazi  Mthembu  University of Pretoria  South Africa 
Kyle  Doane Digitalis Education Solutions United States of America
Lahcen Ouknine Faculty Of Sciences , Ibn Zohr University, Agadir Morocco
Lamessa  Fekede Dambi Dollo University Ethiopia
Lan Tran The University of Sydney Australia
Laurinda Jesuela D. Macaringue Eduardo Mondlane University  Maputo 
Lawrence Oyedeji Inumoh Institute for Space Science and Engineering Nigeria
LEBOGANG LEKGANYANE SARAO SOUTH AFRICA
Lee Townsend SAAO RSA
Lerato Sebokolodi Rhodes University South Africa
Lerothodi Leeuw UWC South Africa
Letjatji Legodi SARAO South Africa
Lev Horodyskyj Science Voices / Blue Marble Space Institute of Science USA
Lina Canas IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach Japan
Linzi Stirrup University of Manchester UK
Lucia Marchetti University of Cape Town South Africa
Lusanda Tamesi Science Stars Magazine South Africa
Lutendo Ramadwa APA South Africa
Ma. Rosario C. Ramos Ramos PAGASA Philippines
Mamadou Mahamat Djabbi NAEC_Chad,NOC_Chad and OAD_Chad Chad
Mambwe kapembwa The University of Zambia Zambia
Mame Faty Lo Quest University Canada Canada
Mamta  Pommier University of Lyon France
Marc  Roffey Astronomical Society of South Africa South Africa
Marcelina Kinyumu Kenyatta University Kenya
Mariama BALDE Maya Institute of Nuclear and Applied Technologies of Cheikh Anta diop University  Sénégal
Marisa Geyer SARAO South Africa
Markus Boettcher North-West University South Africa
Martin Snow SANSA South Africa
Marwan AIT HADDOU 3AM Morocco
Mathias  Becerra Sanchez Nuestros Héroes de la Guerra del Pacífico Peru
Mathieu Isidro SKA Observatory United Kingdom
Mathipa Sebitsiwa Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome South Africa
Matt Hilton University of  KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
Mattia Vaccari UWC South Africa
Maureen Umeh Nnamdi Awka University,Awka Nigeria
Mayssa  El Yazidi Center for Studies and Activities for Space “G. Colombo”- CISAS, University of Padova Italy
Mbonteh Roland Ndunge Cameroon Astronomy and Space Research Organization Cameroon
Mehbuba Ahmed Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Mehbuba Mohammed Ethiopian Space scince and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Melvin Hoare University of Leeds UK
Mercy Onaopemipo Akintola Akintola Federal University of Technology Akure Nigeria
Meron Bekabil Wolikite University Ethiopian
Michael Backes University of Namibia Namibia
MICHELE GERBALDI Institut d’Astrophysique de Paris France
Michelle Lochner University of the Western Cape/ South African Radio Astronomy Observatory South Africa
Miriam Nyamai University of Cape Town South Africa
Mirjana Povic ESSTI Ethiopia
Mohamed Aboushelib National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics Egypt
Mohamed Darwish Darwish National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG) Egypt
Mohammad Yahaya ABU Samaru zaria Nigeria
Mohao  Metivier Societe d’aatronomie haitienne Haoti
Molly N.  Kgobathe Astronomical Society of Botswana, University of Botswana Botswana
Mona  Molham NRIAG Egypt
Mortiaux  Véronique  Lycée français Jean Mermoz Dakar Senegal
Moses Kamwela Copperbelt University Zambia
Moses Mogotsi SAAO, SALT South Africa
Mukadi Chisabi The University of Zambia Zambia
Mulugeta  Adibaru Kotebe Metropolitan University Ethiopia
Munira Hoosain University of Cape Town/South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
Munyaradzi Makoni Media South Africa
Mustapha Iderawumi Space in Africa Nigeria
Mutshidzi Mclloyd Nelwamondo  AfAS South Africa
Nadeem Oozeer SARAO South Acrica
Nadine Sims Science Stars magazine South Africa
Nancy Julianna Tovolahy University of Antananarivo Madagascar
Naomi  Asabre Frimpong Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute Ghana
Naoufel Ben Maaouia Tunis sciences City Tunisia
Narges Hatamkhani UCT South Africa
Narusha Isaacs University of the Western Cape South Africa
Nasser  Sqalli  Atlas Dark Sky Foundation 3AM Morocco
Nassima  Meftah eloued university Algérie
Nazir Makda South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
Nebiyu Mohammed Ethiopian Space Science & Technology Institute Ethiopian
Nigist Beyene Bahir Dar University Ethiopia
Niki Tossou Club Chavillois d’Astronomie France
Niruj Mohan Ramanujam African Astronomical Society & Indian Institute of Astrophysics India
Nnaemeka Dom Onyeuwaoma  Center for Basic Space Science Nigeria
Nnaemeka Njoku-Achu  University of Nigeria, Nsukka Nigeria
Nnaji Chinedu Jude Nnaji UNN Nigeria
Nonofo  Mogopodi  Marang JSS /Stream International  Botswana
Noorali Jiwaji Open University of Tanzania Tanzania
Ntahompagaze Joseph University of Rwanda, College of Science and Technology Rwanda
Obed  ASIEDU University of Energy and Natural Resources  Ghana
Ofentse  Letebele Iziko Museums of South Africa South Africa
Olayinka  Fagbemiro  National Space Research and Development Agency  Nigeria
Otlhomame  Thibelang  NA Botswana 
Pasindu Hatharasinghe  Sri Lanka Technological Campus  Sri Lanka 
Patrice Okouma Rhodes University South Africa
Patricia  Whitelock SAAO & UCT South Africa
Patrick Gaulme Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research Germany
Patrick Woudt University of Cape Town South Africa
Paul  Baki Technical University of Kenya Kenya
Paul Groot UCT/SAAO/Radboud South Africa/The Netherlands
Paul Ludick Private / amateur astronomer  South Africa 
Paul Woods Nature Astronomy UK
Peter  Okagu  Centre for Basic Space Science Nsukka  Nigeria 
Petri Vaisanen South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
Pfesesani Van Zyl SARAO/HartRAO South Africa
Pheneas Nkundabakura University of Rwanda Rwanda
Prince Warren  William University of Dodoma Tanzania
Priscilla Muheki  Mbarara University of Science and Technology  Uganda
Priya  Hasan Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad, India India
Prospery  Simpemba Copperbelt University/SAROAD Zambia
Prudence  AYIVI Astronomy club “Sirius Astro-Club Bénin” Benin
Pushty  Shrimankar H & H. B. Kotak institute of Science India 
Rajae  Ouherra  Student  Morocco 
Rajae Rajae ouherra Arab Astronomical society  Morocco
Rajeev  Gopal ASSA South Africa
Rameshwar Bankar Mahatma Fule College, Warud India
Ramotholo  Sefako SAAO South Africa
RANDRIAMANANTENA Zarason Herman University of Antananarivo Madagascar
RAZANAKOTO  Mializo Haikintana Astronomy Association  Madagascar 
Reikantseone Diretse University of Cape Town South Africa
Renée C. Kraan-Korteweg University of Cape Town South Africa
Richard  Wade University of pretoria South Africa
Rodney  Kumsinda Astronomy Club of Malawi Malawi
Roger  Mayala University of Kwazulu-Natal Afrique du Sud
Roger Deane University of the Witwatersrand South Africa
Romanus  Eze University of Nigeria Nsukka  Nigeria 
Ronel Du Preez NHLS; USS-Dauntless; Astronomy society Bloemfontein South Africa
Rosalind Skelton SAAO South Africa
Rubby  Aworka Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute Ghana
Rubén García-Benito Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (IAA-CSIC) Spain
Ruth Taju Hassen  Hassen School Ethiopia 
SABIL Mohammed Oukaimeden Observatory-National School of Applied Sciences Beni Mellal-Sultan Moulay Slimane University Morocco
Safiya  Isah National Space Research and development agency,  Abuja Nigeria
Sally Macfarlane University of Cape Town South Africa
Sammy  Sir Ethiopian Space Science  Ethiopia
Samson Mulandi Mutunga University of Nairobi Kenya
Samson Mutunga University of Nairobi Kenya
Samuel  Ajakaiye Nigerian Communications Satellite Nigeria
Samuel Ibidapo Federal University of Technology Akure Nigeria
Samuel Siyoum Weldegiorgis Woldia University Ethiopia 
Samyukta Manikumar Self Kenya
Sandra  Benitez Herrera Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias Spain
Sara Lucatello INAF Italy
Sarah  Abotsi-Masters Ghana Planetarium / African Astronomical Society Ghana
Sarah  Blyth University of Cape Town South Africa
Sarah Buchner SARAO South Africa
Sarah White Rhodes University South Africa
Sebastião António Uane Vilanculos UEM-Mozambique Mozambique
Selina White Independent researcher Ireland
Shambel Sahlu Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Sheriff Jimoh Geolinks Consults Limited Nigeria
Sigrid Shilunga University of Namibia Namibia
Siham Kalli M’sila University Algeria
SIMON  ANJELUS BRASHI OPEN UNIVERSITY OF TANZANIA TANZANIA
Simphiwe  Madlanga South African Radio Astronomy Observatory South Africa
Sindhu Gaddam University of KwaZulu Natal South Africa
Sinenhlanhla Precious Sikhosana University of KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
Siri Lamoureaux University of Siegen Germany
SISAY FANTAHUN ABATE ABATE Ethiopian Space Science Society Ethiopia
Sivuyile Manxoyi SAAO South Africa
Solohery Randriamampandry SAAO / Univ. of Antananarivo South Africa
Solomon Tessema Ethiopian Space Science and Technology indtitute Ethiopia
Somaya Saad National Researh Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics Egypt
Sovan Acharya Sa citizen science group  India
Sqalli  Nasser  Atlas Dark Sky Foundation  Morocco 
Stelios Tryfon  1010 Asteroskopeion Cyprus
Sthabile Kolwa University of Johannesburg South Africa
Suanne Rampou Western Cape Education Department South Africa
Sudum Esaenwi Rivers State University, Port Harcourt Nigeria
Susan Murabana Owen  The Travelling Telescope  Kenya
Tahani Shatir University of Khartoum Sudan
Taiwo Olusayo Osanyin National Institute for Space Research Brazil
Takalani Nemaungani Department of Science and Innovation South africa
Talibi Hassan  NOC Morocco Morocco
Tana Joseph University of Amsterdam Netherlands 
Tankiso Moso  South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) South Africa
TEMENOU TIOLO Aurélien University Of Yaounde 1 Cameroon
TEMITOPE  ANJORIN MEDIA(RADIO STATION) NIGERIA
Tesfay Tesfu Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia 
Thephilus Matsepane UCT/UP South Africa
Theresa de Young  SAAO South Africa
Thierry Martial Tchangole CosmoLAb Hub Benin
Thilina Heenatigala Earth-Life Science Institute (ELSI) Japan
Thutho Ndlovu University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) South Africa
TILAHUN GETACHEW Woreta Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Timi Ekubo  Astronomers Without Borders. Nigeria  Nigeria 
Timothy C. Egbuim National Space Research and Development Agency Nigeria
Toivo Samuel Mabote Universidade Eduardo Mondlane Mozambique
Tolu Biressa Jimma University, Department of Physics Ethiopia
Tom Mutabazi Mbarara University of Science and Technology Uganda
Tombo Fitahiana Rarivoarinoro University of Antananarivo Madagascar
Trishna Subedi Amrit campus, TU Nepal
Tsegazeab Hailegebriel Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Ethiopia
Tshiamiso Makwela University of Cape Town/ Max Planck Institute of Astronomy, HdA South Africa/ (Germany)
Tyler Bourke SKA Observatory UK
Unathi Kondile African Science Stars  South Africa 
Usman Yuguda Institute of space science and engineering NASRDA Abuja Nigeria 
Uzan Jean-Philippe CNRS/Intitut d’astrophysique de Paris France
Vanessa McBride OAD/SAAO/UCT South Africa
Vanessa Moss CSIRO Australia
Vivian Otieno Delft University of Technology, Delft,Netherlands. Kenya
Vivian Otugo Rivers State University, Port Harcourt Nigeria
Walter Silima University of the Western Cape South Africa
Wendkouni Jean Luc TOUGMA TOUGMA UJKZ Burkina Faso
Werner Oscar Tsekumah Not Applicable Ghana
William Christian Tchaptchet CASRO (Cameroon Astronomy ans Space Research Organisation) and University of Dschang Cameroon
William Garnier SKAO UK
William Gustave Société haïtienne d’astronomie (SHA) Haïti
Williams Onyinyechi NASRDA-Centre for Basic Space Science, Nsukka Nigeria
Wisdom Dlamini University of Eswatini Eswatini
WISDOM KWAME  ATTIPOE Astronomy House Foundation Ghana
Yewande  Adeyeye  National Space Research and Development Agency Nigeria 
Yosry Azzam National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG) Egypt
Youssef Moulane Cadi ayyad university  Morocco 
Yunus  Manjoo  AfAS  South Africa 
Yutaka Shiratori Tokai Univ 日本
Zakaria  Belhaj  HPS Fondation  Morocco 
Zara Randriamanakoto South African Astronomical Observatory South Africa
Zeleke Beyoro Amado Kotebe Metropolitan University Ethiopia
Zwidofhelangani Khangale  SAAO & UCT  South Africa

A quick mapping based on the table above…

Celebrating Asteroid Day Across Africa

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Africa is celebrating Asteroid Day with a series of events starting on June 30th. Join us in the celebration from wherever you are! Thanks for our colleagues from AfAS who have compiled this list.

BENIN

Sirius Astro-Club, Benin will organise its first event at the University of Abomey-Calavi on 30 June
https://www.facebook.com/Sirius-Astro-Club-Bénin-104882745154428/

BOTSWANA

Astronomical Society of Botswana organised “Tracing Motopi Pan meteorite to its origin in asteroid belt”, a talk on 24 June, presentation available at https://astronomicalsocietyofbotswana.org/events/

COTE D’IVOIRE

Des conferences sont organisées sur ce thème, par l’Association Ivoirienne d’Astronomie, 10-12 am, 30 June, a LASMES ex LAPA-MF

EGYPT

A talk in Arabic organised by NRIAG, Egypt on 23rd June. You can listen to it at https://youtu.be/2vspetf9TF0

ETHIOPIA

A day long event at Akako Menubichu Primary School by Entoto Observatory on 30 June

GHANA

“This Day Rocks!”, a rocking online zoom session by the Ghana Planetarium team featuring talks, Q&A and a quiz. 5-6.30 pm, 3rd July, Register for zoom link at https://forms.gle/aXrpMFmugr7nQUiAA

Africa Scientific Renaissance Day celebration by MESTI and GAEC, 28-30 June, 10 am. Register at www.tinyurl.com/gaec-asrd 

Event on 7th July at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

KENYA

“Exploring space whilst keeping Earth safe”, talk at 2.00 pm on 2 July.
www.join.skype.com/GZnhmTHr2eXb 

MADAGASCAR

Haikintana – Astronomy from Madagascar is also organizing a week long celebration:https://web.facebook.com/photo?fbid=328001578892899&set=a.249855260040865

NIGERIA

‘Rocks from space: is the Earth im danger?’, a talk by Univ of Nigeria, Nsukka, 10 am WAT, 30 June. 
www.asteroidday.org/event/rocks-from-space-is-the-earth-in-danger-2 

SUDAN

STEMSudan is organising events for school students, with lectures and sky observations on 4-7 July
www.facebook.com/stemsudan 

TUNISIA

Many lectures on asteroids organised by Tunisian Association of Young Astronomers and IAU OAO, 9 am to 5 pm, 30 June
https://www.facebook.com/AstroTunisianTaya/
https://www.facebook.com/pg/OAOTUNISIA/posts/

For more information on Asteroid Day, see https://asteroidday.org.

Towards the First IAU-General Assembly on the African Continent in 2024, and Beyond

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Africa-Europe Science and Innovation Summit 14 – 18 June 2021: AfAS-IAU-OAD session on Africa-EU Astronomy Collaborations: “Towards the First IAU-General Assembly on the African Continent in 2024, and Beyond” taking place on 16 June 2021 (9:00am – 11:00am CAT/CEST)

The Africa-Europe Science and Innovation Summit will be held virtually from June 14 to June 18, 2021. Within the content of this Summit the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) and the International Astronomical Union Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU OAD) will present a dedicated session entitled “Africa-EU Astronomy Collaborations: Towards the First IAU-General Assembly on the African Continent in 2024, and Beyond”.

In the last two decades, astronomy and space science in Africa have developed rapidly, as evidenced through the winning of the bid to host, for the first time in Africa, the International Astronomical Union’s General Assembly (IAU-GA) in 2024. The IAU-GA is the largest international gathering of astronomers, held every three years by the IAU (the 100-year-old IAU is the international astronomical organisation that brings together more than 12 000 active professional astronomers from more than 100 countries worldwide). There are already numerous astronomy infrastructure projects, instruments and training programmes that are of interest to communities in both Africa and the EU, such as those in optical astronomy (SALT, MeerLicht, Oukaïmeden, Entoto, etc); radio astronomy (MeerKAT, SKA, JIVE, DARA, HartRAO, VLBI, etc); and gamma ray astronomy (HESS and CTA). This special session offers an opportunity for interactions between existing and potential Africa-EU collaborators to stimulate and explore mutually beneficial opportunities that may arise specifically in the lead up towards the IAU-GA in 2024. Discussions around related science and outreach topics could potentially lead to Africa-EU collaborative flagship projects that would contribute to the legacy of the IAU-GA in 2024.

 Topics during this session will include:

  1. Bringing together African and EU Astronomical communities (networking);
  2. Developing potential Africa-EU flagship projects in science and outreach;
  3. Increasing African contributions to the science agenda of the IAU-GA 2024
  4. Using the IAU-GA as a milestone to strengthen Africa-EU research collaborations through joint research projects, observations, MSc/Ph.D. student joint supervision, joint proposals, etc.
  5. Identifying potential funding channels for activities leading up to and including the 2024 IAU GA;
  6. Establishment of an Africa-EU Working Group for the IAU-GA in 2024

If you wish to attend this or any other sessions during this summit, please register at the following link. The registration is free, enabling you to select those sessions you wish to attend.

https://www.eventbrite.be/e/africa-europe-science-and-innovation-summit-14-18-june-registration-156399401821

For more information contact the AfAS Head Secretariat, Charles Takalana, on 081 481 7416 or email charles.takalana@afasociety.org

You can also contact the Director of OAD, Kevin Govender on 082 487 8466 or email Kg@astro4dev.org

Contact th IAU General Assembly 2024 National Organising Committee on 082 4030908 or email IAUGA2024@afasociety.org

Websites:

IAU GA 2024: www.astronomy2024.org

IAU OAD: www.astro4dev.org

AfAS: www.africanastronomicalsociety.org

Editor’s note: 

AfAS: AfAS is a Pan-African astronomy professional society that works to create a globally competitive and collaborative astronomy community in Africa. It was established in 2010 and relaunched in 2019. Its mission is to be the voice of astronomy in Africa and to contribute to addressing Africa’s challenges through astronomy promotion and advancement. 

The OAD: The OAD was established in 2011 by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), in partnership with the South African National Research Foundation (NRF) and supported by the South African Department of Science and Innovation. The OAD is a key component of the IAU’s strategy to use astronomy for sustainable global development. The mission of the OAD is to help further the use of astronomy, including its practitioners, skills and infrastructures, as a tool for development in every country by mobilizing the human and financial resources necessary in order to realize the field’s scientific, technological and cultural benefits to society. 

AERAP is a response to the European Parliament Written Declaration 45 on Science Capacity Building in Africa. This call was repeated by the Heads of State of the African Union through their Decision Assembly/AU/Dec.407 CXVIII. AERAP encourages policymakers to understand the need for an enabling policy and regulatory environment for science cooperation with Africa and championing leadership in Africa and Europe to demonstrate science’s contribution to society and address common global challenges.


The June 2021 Summit will draw on a range of processes, including AGENDA 2063, Africa’s blueprint and master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse; the AU Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024); the European Commission; Communication Towards a Comprehensive Strategy with Africa which foresees future cooperation built on five partnerships: green transition, digital transformation, growth and jobs, peace and governance and migration and mobility. All of these areas will rely on science and innovation cooperation.

Over the past decade, Africa experienced rapid economic growth. While momentum is widely recognised, longer-term growth depends on sustained investment in an innovative workforce to advance a knowledge economy. Currently the scientific workforce deficits are acute. However, there are compelling grounds for optimism as public and private sectors ramp up scientific investment in the coming years. Fortunately, scientific innovation in Africa is on the rise. 
The Strategic Plan 2020-24 – Research and Innovation of the European Commission stresses the importance of International STI Cooperation. The plan highlights the importance of collaborative research and innovation initiatives, including the Horizon Europe Missions and the European Partnerships. The June summit will promote discussion on advancing synergies between Horizon Europe and Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) and other EU and Member State support measures the need for Africa-Europe science cooperation presented by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

2021 Forum on Astronomy in Africa and the IAU GA2024

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The International Astronomical Union, which has been in existence for over 100 years, is the world’s largest body of professional astronomers. Every three years it holds a General Assembly, bringing together astronomers from around the world. This meeting will take place for the first time on the African continent in 2024. Cape Town has been selected to host the meeting, and the National Research Foundation (NRF) is the official host organisation. In preparation for this event, it is essential to bring together the African astronomical community to discuss how the continent can maximally benefit from this unique opportunity as well as how best to facilitate participation by countries in Africa.

Format: Virtual Forum for African astronomy community via Zoom

Date/Duration: 27 – 29 October 2021 (3 days)

Venue: Online on Zoom and live on Youtube

Contributions: Contributions were in the form of short recorded talks about ideas or initiatives related to the IAU GA 2024, and then real-time (during the Forum) proposals for discussion in the “unconference” session.

Purpose: Engage the African Astronomy community, including astronomers, amateur astronomers, education and outreach community, to obtain commitment on participation and appoint country ambassadors.

Spirit: The October Forum should be based on the principle of shared ownership. Different stakeholder groups (e.g. astronomers, amateurs, science centres, outreach professionals, etc) should drive activities agreed upon at the forum.

Who should attend: Astronomers, amateur astronomers, education and outreach community or anyone with an interest in astronomy research, infrastructures, education, outreach, development; amateur astronomy, astrotourism, astronomy arts & culture, etc. In particular, those interested in proposing an IAU Symposium or Focus meeting at the 2024 GA were encouraged to express their interest during the Science session on Day 3.

Participants list: View the full list of 430 registered participants at this link.

Essential reading: In preparation for participation in the Forum, everyone was asked to please read through the 2024 Vision document which one can find info about at this link or access directly as a Google doc where one could leave comments. This document formed the core of the discussions at the Forum and includes actions needed. Participants of the Forum would ideally take on some of these actions.

Unconference: On Day 2 the discussions were in the form of an “unconference” – this means that the topics of discussion were based on the participants’ interests. If there was a topic that interested someone, they were able to propose it or, if someone else had already proposed it, vote for it. Most popular proposals were given a time slot on Day 2.

Slack channel: A Slack channel was set up for the Forum for participants to engage with each other. Participants could join via this link and start chatting with fellow participants prior to, during and after the Forum.

Gather.town: Participants were welcome to meet and network during the breaks in Gather.town.

Outcome: By the end of the Forum there was an updated vision document with specific actions and people/organisations volunteering to drive those actions. Thanks to the South African Department of Science and Innovation we have funds available to support these actions towards 2024.

Recordings: Each day’s discussions were broadcast live on Youtube, where it remains as a recording of the discussions (see links below)

Summary of links:
1. Latest programme and information about the Forum (this page)
2. Zoom link to connect to the meeting (same for all days – now expired)
3. Live stream on Youtube (see recordings below)
4. Slack channel for chatting with fellow participants
5. Gather.town link for networking during the breaks (same link for all breaks – now expired)
6. List of registered participants (430 in total)
7. The latest 2024 Vision Document on which you can leave comments/suggestions
8. The Unconference document where you could propose/view/vote for Day 2 topics
9. Recording from Day 1
10. Recording from Day 2
11. Recording from Day 3 Science Parallel Session
12. Recording from Day 3 Outreach Parallel Session
11. Recording from Day 3 plenary

 

 

Programme

Where pre-recorded videos are available, you can click on the title link to view it, then click “back” on your browser to return.

Day 1: 27 October 2021 All times in Central African Time (CAT)  
09:30 Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking  
10:00 Welcome messages from key stakeholders  
  International Astronomical Union José Miguel Rodriguez
  Department of Science and Innovation Takalani Nemaungani
  National Research Foundation Kurt van der Heyden
  African Astronomical Society Jamal Mimouni
     
10:10 Overview of GA2024, Vision and expected outcomes of workshop Vanessa McBride and Kevin Govender
10:30 Science flagship intro Bradley Frank and Bonita de Swart
10:40 Outreach Flagship intro Carolina Odman and Niruj Mohan
10:50 Possibility of AfAS astronomy hubs to implement flagships Kevin Govender
11:00 Current and proposed astronomy research activities on the continent   
  South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and MeerKAT Khulu Phasiwe
  Oukaimeden Observatory Benkhaldoun Zouhair
  Hydrogen Intensity and Real-Time Analysis eXperiment (HIRAX) Kavilan Moodley
  Astronomy Development in Egypt: New Facilities and Frontiers  Somaya Saad
  South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Petri Vaisanen
  The South African Gamma-Ray Astronomy Programme (SA-GAMMA) Markus Böttcher
  Stellar Occultations in Africa in Support of NASA Missions Anne Verbiscer
  Overview of research done at UCT Astronomy Patrick Woudt
  In-field identification of Moroccan meteorites using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) handheld instrumentation Giorgio Senesi
  Ionised bubbles before the epoch of reionisation José Miguel Rodriguez
  African VLBI Network (AVN) Carla Sharpe
  South African National Space Agency (SANSA) Martin Snow
  Spectroscopy of variables stars at Oukaimeden Observatory BENHIDA Abdelmajid
  Post-forum submission: Kenya Optical Telescope Initiative Nadir Omar Hashim
  Current and proposed astronomy outreach activities on the continent   
  Women in Astronomy and activities at the IAU Mamta Pommier
  Inspiration and Engagement with Astronomy Through Khoi and San Starlore Daniel Cunnama
  The Travelling Telescope Susan Murabana Owen
  African Science Stars (ASSAP) Unathi Kondile
  Astronomy outreach and development in Benin Prudence AYIVI
  The Wits Digital Dome Roger Deane
  CosmoLAb Magazine Thierry Martial Tchangole
  Affordable Radio Telescopes for Education and Outreach Ikechukwu Obi
  Astronomy in developing countries using Virtual Observatories Khadija El Bouchefry
  THE ACTIVITIES OF OUR ASSOCIATIONS (الجمعية الموريتانيه لعلم الفلك Mauritanian Association of Astronomy) ELY CHEIKH Ould Mohamed Navee
  Pan-African School for Emerging Astronomers (PASEA) Chukwujekwu Ofodum
  Astronomy Outreach in Libya Amjed Khurwat
  Astronomy Outreach in Ethiopia Kirubel Menberu
  Astronomy Outreach in Egypt Somaya Saad
  Astronomy Outreach in Botswana Molly Kgobathe
     
  Current and proposed collaborative initiatives on the continent   
  African Astronomical Society Charles Takalana
  African Planetarium Association Lucia Marchetti
  Arab Astronomical Society Raid Suleiman
  African Initiative for Planetary and Space Science (AFIPS) David Baratoux
  East African Astronomy Research Network Simon Anguma
  South African Institute of Physics Makaiko Chithambo
  IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach Lina Canas
  IAU Office of Astronomy for Education Tshiamiso Makwela
  IAU Office of Astronomy for Development Kevin Govender
  Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA) Melvin Hoare
  DARA Big Data Anna Scaife
  Development of astronomy in East Africa and focus areas to invest in the region Alemiye Mamo
  National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme (NASSP) Ros Skelton
  IAU Office for Young Astronomers and International School for Young Astronomers (ISYA) David Mota
  ISYA South Africa Moses Mogotsi
  Astrotourism Stelios Tryfon
  African Network for Women in Astronomy (AfNWA) Mirjana Povic
  Creating international support groups to build and sustain local capacity and build local expertise Noorali Jiwaji
  Using Big Data for Scientific (Astronomical) Data Computing and Management Tsegazeab Hailegebriel
  A Platform of collaboration for research and education across Africa Tolu Biressa
  GA2024 – An engineering point of view Yosry Azzam
  Infrastructure and collaboration Solomon Tessema
  African Radio Astronomy Network James Chibueze
  West African Regional Office of Astronomy for Development (WAROAD) Nnaemeka Dom Onyeuwaoma
  Portuguese Language Centre of the OAD (PLOAD) Gustavo Rojas
  Lessons learned from “The Future of Meetings” Vanessa Moss
13:30 Break (Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking)  
14:00 Working session: achieving the vision (walk through vision doc, identify gaps, assign actions)  
  Unconference instructions and determination of programme for Day 2  
15:00 Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking  
     
Day 2: 28 October 2021 All times in Central African Time (CAT)  
09:30 Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking  
10:00 Reflections on Day 1  
10:15 Vision discussion/unconference #1 (see topics, propose, and vote at this link)  
  The AfAS survey Charles Takalana
  Amateur community in Africa Paul Ludick
  Benefits for African school children from GA2024; Astronomy education in Africa Ruth Taju; Zakaria Belhaj
  Data archiving from telescopes on the continent Vanessa McBride; David Buckley
  Recording, preserving, and sharing astronomy heritage data (perhaps via a digital repository) Auke; Somaya
  Possibility for any African countries to join large projects such as SKA Ange Cynthia Umuhire
  Astronomy at universities for undergraduates Michele Gerbaldi
  Why should every physicist (and chemist) and even citizens be astronomy literate! Making a case for it. Jamal Mimouni
  Using Virtual Observatories for Astronomical Research and for Education and Outreach Khadija El-Bouchefry
  A brief introduction to Gather. town (and the future of meetings); barriers and challenges for online Vanessa Moss
12:30 Break (Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking)  
13:00 Vision discussion/unconference #2 (see topics, propose, and vote at this link)  
  Possible Programs for Women in Astronomy WG Priya Hasan
  Planetary (Solar system, Asteroids, Fireball, meteoroids, comets, … ) Jean-Baptiste Kikwaya
  Globalization of Astronomy terminologies and descriptions Noorali Jiwaji
  Initiating departments for “Astronomy Engineering” at the colleges of engineering in the continent Yosry Azzam
  Dark sky conservation and Astro-tourism initiatives in Africa Alemiye Mamo Yacob
  Making the IAU GA multilingual Thierry Martial Tchangole
  Facilitate the exchange of African students and researchers Abdelmajid
Benhida, NooraliJiwaji
14:00 Determination of additional parallel sessions for Day 3 (no additional parallel sessions – only Science and Outreach)  
14:30 Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking  
     
     
Day 3: 29 October 2021 All times in Central African Time (CAT)  
09:30 Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking  
09:45 Reflections on Day 2  
10:00 Parallel sessions:  
  Parallel Session 1: Science  
10:00 Intro to Session Brad/Bonita
10:10 Flagship Projects David
10:20 I-How Meetings Brad
10:30 IAU Symposia & Focus Meetings: Previous Meetings in Africa Mirjana
10:50 IAU Symposia & Focus Meetings: The proposal evaluation process Renee
11:00 Discussion With Mirjana/Renee, Chaired by Brad & Bonita
11:15 Short break, depending on length of discussion  
11:20 Intro & Disclaimer to session on Symposia Brad/Bonita
11:25 Symposium: Inclusive AGN Sarah & Sthabile
11:35 Symposium: Pulsars and Radio Transients Marisa
11:45 Symposium: Gravitational Waves Paul
11:55 Symposium: Galactic Plane James
12:05 Symposium: Radio Astronomy Patrick
12:15 Symposium: X-Ray Binaries Itumeleng
12:25 Discussion  
12:40 Focus Meeting: High Energy Michael
12:50 Focus Meeting: Gas in Galaxies Sarah & DJ
13:00 Discussion & Closing Remarks SSC
  Parallel Session 2: Communications, Education and Outreach  
10:00 Welcome & Introduction to the programme Carolina and Niruj
10:10 Flagship project discussion Led by Niruj
10:40 Planetaria discussion Led by Lucia
10:55 Science Centers discussion Led by MJ
11:10 Education and African NAEC network discussion Led by Sally
11:25 Schools discussion Led by Sivuyile
11:40 Amateur Astronomers discussion Led by Daniel
11:55 Astrotourism discussion Led by Anthony
12:10 Industry discussion Led by Anton
12:25 Wild ideas discussion Carolina
12:40 Pan-African coordination Niruj
12:55 Consolidation Carolina
13:00 Close  
13:00 Break (Optional Gather.town and Zoom networking)  
13:30 Plenary (Report back from parallel sessions and discussion)  
14:00 Action items, summary and way forward  
15:00 Close  

Poster

Download the poster here:

Low-resolution image
High-resolution image
Low-resolution PDF
Print-quality PDF

2021 African Radio Interferometry Winter School

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28 June 2021 to 2 July 2021

Free online workshop presented by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), in collaboration with the Radio Astronomy Techniques and Technology (RATT) and Cavendish Laboratory and Kavli Institute for Cosmology in Cambridge / REACH project

Guest speakers

Dr Eloy de Lera Aceda – A presentation on the REACH telescope and science
Prof James Chibueze – Black hole jets bent by magnetic fields

Overview

The African Radio Interferometry Winter School focuses on the theoretical and introductory tutorial aspects of radio interferometry. The introductory level of the workshop makes it well suited to students and young professionals, as well as scientists and engineers interested in acquiring a basic working knowledge of radio astronomy.

The workshop is wholly a remote attendance workshop that will be presented over 5 days running from 9am to 6pm — timezone Africa/Johannesburg (UTC + 2).

Remote lectures will be presented via webinar with Q&A sessions after each presentation, as well as discussions sessions as necessary.

Practical hands-on exercises are provided via Google colab python notebooks and will be self-education based and completed at the attendees own pace. All tutorials use MeerKAT public data or other public training data sets.

Topics covered in this year’s workshop

  • Flagging, calibration and imaging of continuum and spectral line data
  • Time domain pulsar sciences
  • Extracting information from astronomical data and interpreting the results
  • Introducing to radio astronomy data processing
  • Hands-on projects to challenge participant’s problem solving skills

More information and School website

6th East African Astronomical Society (EAAS) Workshop

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The sixth East African Astronomical Society (EAAS) workshop will be held from 20-22 May 2021 at University of Dodoma (UDOM), Dodoma, Tanzania. The main objectives of the EAAS workshop are to promote and enhance the development of Astronomy in East Africa region, to create a platform in networking young and senior scientific communities so as to share their research findings as well as experiences. Consequently, the workshop provides an opportunity to establish regional and international collaboration in research, supervision and teaching of astronomy across the region. Prior to the EAAS workshop, the East Africa School of Astronomy (EA-SA) will provide training for undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing programs related to Astronomy ahead of EAAS workshop. A total of 120 Participants are expected to attend the EAAS workshop of which 30 participants are young career researchers who are attending the EA- SA school.

The Objective of EAAS workshop

  • To discus on recent developments of scientific research outputs of Astronomy at regional level.
  • To create an avenue for networking and sharing of experiences amongst young scientific researchers and experienced researchers in the areas of astronomy and space science.
  • To promote and enhance the development of Astronomy in East Africa region and across Africa.
  • To impart relevant knowledge to students and create opportunities for further research in Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • To establish and strengths international and regional collaboration in research, supervision and teaching of Astronomy in the region.

More information and Conference website

Sub-Saharan Africa Astronomy Summer School

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Galaxies, Extrasolar planets and Stellar physics: Gazing into the deep space, searching for new worlds, an insights into stellar interior physics.

6 – 17 September 2021 

The ongoing activities of the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) telescope have accelerated the development of astronomy research on the African continent especially in the field of galactic studies. These activities are no longer concentrated in South Africa only, but have also spread to the Sub-Saharan African region. Furthermore, space missions such as NASA’s Kepler and NASA’s TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) have further enhanced the development of other astronomy research fields, mainly exoplanet and stellar physics exploration. The future of these research areas is expected to become even brighter with the magnificent observations expected from ESA’s PLATO (PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars) mission planned to be launched in 2026. A number of African universities from the Sub-Saharan African region have embraced the open access data from these space missions and SKA telescopes, striving to make essential contributions to these research science fields, hence, aiding our understanding of the universe. 

Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in conjunction with the Max-Planck-Institut für Astrophysik (MPA),  Thüringer Landessternwarte Tautenburg(TLS), and  Instituto de Astrofísica e Ciências do Espaço (IA) are organising a Sub-Saharan Africa Advanced Astronomy Summer School in Uganda focusing on three fields of scientific research, namely galaxies, extra-solar planet science, and stellar interior physics. The goal of the summer school is to invite experts to share the state-of-the-art techniques/methods currently employed in these scientific research areas. In addition, research areas such as exoplanet and stellar physics studies have strong synergies and therefore present opportunities for generating research ideas which cut across the two fields, thus creating avenues for networking and building substantial collaborations among researchers and students in these fields. Students and postdoc researchers will be given an opportunity to present their own research work in the form of posters.

The summer school is open to 30 participants, i.e., mainly MSc./PhD students, and early career postdoc researchers in physics, astronomy or astrophysics from the Sub-Saharan African region. BSc. students in their final year with prospects of pursuing careers in physics, astronomy or astrophysics will be considered. The summer school will be held in Uganda from September 6th – 17th, 2021.

More information and School website

© 2024 IAU General Assembly 2024 – Cape Town