BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//IAU General Assembly 2024 - Cape Town - ECPv6.5.1.5//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://astronomy2024.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for IAU General Assembly 2024 - Cape Town
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Africa/Johannesburg
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:SAST
DTSTART:20240101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240814T193000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240814T203000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240715T154352Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240810T121540Z
UID:10000026-1723663800-1723667400@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Public Event: The Cosmic Savannah Live Show (in person and online)
DESCRIPTION:The Cosmic Savannah Podcast will be hosting a LIVE show at the IAU General Assembly. This event will blend fun\, education\, and inspiration\, providing a great opportunity for attendees to connect with the stars. The event will feature special guests and will be open to the public for free as well as streamed online!
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/the-cosmic-savannah-live-show/
LOCATION:Cape Town International Convention Centre 1 (CTICC 1)\, 1 Lower Long Street\, Convention Square\,\, Cape Town\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WhatsApp-Image-2024-07-12-at-12.28.56500-e1721058184942.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240814T180000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240814T200000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240809T000919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240809T002942Z
UID:10000034-1723658400-1723665600@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:PUBLIC TALK: Insights from Nature: The Dung Beetle and Juno’s Journey to Jupiter [In-person at the CTSC]
DESCRIPTION:The Cape Town Science Centre\, in collaboration with the IAU General Assembly 2024 is hosting a free public talk “Insights from Nature and Space: The Dung Beetle and Juno’s Journey to Jupiter” with two speakers – Marcus Byrne (University of Witwatersrand) and Heidi Becker (NASA Heidi Becker – NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory). The MC for the event will be Steve Sherman (Living Maths). \nBook your free tickets here \n 
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/public-talk-insights-from-nature-the-dung-beetle-and-junos-journey-to-jupiter-in-person-at-the-cticc/
LOCATION:Cape Town Science Centre
CATEGORIES:Africa Astro Month,Participants,Public Engagements,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/unnamed.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240813T193000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240813T220000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240715T150808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240813T075842Z
UID:10000023-1723577400-1723586400@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:#AfricaLookUp Cultural Exchange Evening
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a captivating evening dedicated to the rich tapestry of cultures and their historic relationship with the skies. Through diverse artistic expressions including storytelling\, music\, dance\, and poetry\, we delve into the timeless wisdom of indigenous knowledge. \nThis gathering is more than just a celebration; it’s a journey of discovery and connection. As we come together beneath the vast African skies\, we honor our shared humanity and the profound bond we hold with the cosmos. Each story shared\, and each dance performed is a testament to the enduring spirit of our collective heritage. \nAt the heart of this event lies a deep reverence for indigenous wisdom. From the celestial navigation techniques of ancient seafarers to the intricate star maps passed down through generations\, these cultural narratives offer invaluable insights into our place in the universe. \nAs we revel in the beauty of cultural exchange\, we invite you to bring forth the treasures of your own heritage. Let us weave together a vibrant mosaic of traditions\, celebrating the diversity that enriches our shared experience. \nThis evening is a celebration of unity\, of the threads that bind us as one human family. Join us under the African skies as we embrace the wisdom of our ancestors and chart a course toward a brighter\, more connected future. \nTogether\, let us honor the legacy of indigenous knowledge and celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity. \n\n\nWe invite you to participate in our cultural showcase event\, celebrating the diverse connections between various cultures and astronomy. Whether through storytelling\, song\, dance\, or other creative expressions\, we welcome you to share how astronomy is interwoven with your cultural heritage. This event will be held during the IAU-GA. \nPlease enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Your name *Please give your full name.How would you like to be addressed? *Please indicate how you would like to be addressed in communications with you. Examples might be "John"\, "Jane Doe" or "Ms Mnegwa".Your email address *Please give your email address. We use this for communication with you.Which culture or community do you represent? *Your country of residence *Please give the country in which you are currently living.Will you be participating as an individual or as a group? *IndividualGroupWhat is the number of participants of your group? *Please give the size of your group (including yourself).How would you like to present your culture or community? *Please state how you would like to represent your culture or community. This can be through song\, dance\, art\, storytelling\, or any other way.Would you be presenting online or in-person? *OnlineIn-personWhat equipment would you need?Please list any equipment you would need (such as a microphone\, a screen\, etc.).Submit
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/africalookup-cultural-exchange-evening-2/
LOCATION:Cape Town International Convention Centre 1 (CTICC 1)\, 1 Lower Long Street\, Convention Square\,\, Cape Town\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_6696-scaled-e1721056252467.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240813T181500
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240813T191500
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240715T162607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240803T145140Z
UID:10000028-1723572900-1723576500@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Public Astronomy Talk: Nature of the Universe by Prof George Ellis (in person and online)
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, 13th August 2024 at 18:15\nProf George Ellis \nThe nature of the Universe:  What we know and what we don’t know \nAbstract: Our ancestors looked up at the sky and asked questions about our existence in the universe\, as we do today. We now know that the universe is very old and very large\, and is changing with time. It has evolved from a very small size in the distant past to its present size\, with a succession of physical processes leading to structures emerging at many scales. Precise astronomical data attained by many telescopes confirms this solid understanding. But there are key issues that are not understood. What is the nature of dark matter? Of the dark energy underlying an accelerating expansion rate at recent times? What physics underlies its dynamics before the Hot Big Bang epoch? Why is there a Hubble tension? Is there an age problem?  Other issues are\, Why is vacuum energy as small as it is? How did quantum fluctuations lead to classical structure? We don’t know the spatial topology of the universe\, or if it is spatially infinite. Above all\, we don’t know how it came into existence\, nor why it allows any life at all to exist. I will claim that the future of the universe is not yet determined yet\, and no\, we don’t live in a simulation. \nBio: George Ellis is Professor Emeritus and Research Fellow at the University of Cape Town\, South Africa. He started his research career studying General Relativity Theory and Cosmology at the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics\, Cambridge University\, where he wrote The Large Scale Structure of Spacetime with Stephen Hawking. He returned to the University of Cape Town in 1973 where he started a research group in general relativity and cosmology\, but also started research in areas such as low-income housing policy\, quality of life indicators\, and how complexity such as the brain emerges from the underlying physics. He has been visiting professor at many universities round the world\, including a period as Professor of Cosmic Physics at the International School of Advanced Studies (SISSA) in Trieste. He has written or co-authored 15 books and some hundreds of papers with over 48000 citations. He has 7 honorary degrees and was awarded the Star of South Africa medal by President Nelson Mandela. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society\, London (FRS) and of the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS).
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/public-astronomy-talk-2-nature-of-the-universe/
LOCATION:Cape Town International Convention Centre 1 (CTICC 1)\, 1 Lower Long Street\, Convention Square\,\, Cape Town\, South Africa
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/NASA-Webb_stephans_quintet.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240812T140000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240812T160000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240809T002536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240809T002820Z
UID:10000035-1723471200-1723478400@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Special Planetarium Screening of !Aitsa
DESCRIPTION:‘!AITSA’ is a transcendental film that explores ancient spiritual knowledge and modern science in the Great Karoo desert of South Africa. \nFrom the Square Kilometre Array to the Blombos cave\, the film features voices ranging from scientists to local clergy and spiritual leaders. \nThis expansive film delves into existential questions and the many paths toward answers that remain just out of reach. \nReserve your seat here.
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/special-planetarium-screening-of-aitsa/
CATEGORIES:Africa Astro Month,Participants,Public Engagements,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/unnamed-2-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240806T200000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240815T213000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240731T132154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240812T072326Z
UID:10000032-1722974400-1723757400@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:South African Astronomical Observatory Open Nights
DESCRIPTION:Join us from August 6th to 15th\, 2024\, for an unforgettable experience at our Open Nights. Each evening will kick off with a captivating presentation on fascinating topics in astronomy or physics. Following the presentation\, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the historic McClean telescope\, our observatory museum\, and the library. Weather permitting\, you can also enjoy stargazing through telescopes set up for the night. \nAugust 6\, 2024 – Dr. Lisa Crause (SALT Observatory Scientist) \nAugust 7\, 2024 – Prof. Ewine van Dishoeck (Prof. of Molecular Astrophysics\, Leiden Observatory) \nAugust 8\, 2024 – Prof. Natalia Lewandowska (Assistant Prof. of Physics\, SUNY) \nAugust 9\, 2024 – Dr. Mark Clampin (NASA Astrophysics Director) \nAugust 10\, 2024 – Senkhosi Simelane (MSc Candidate\, WITS) \nAugust 11\, 2024 – Dr. Joseph Lazio (Chief Scientist; NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory\, California Institute of Technology) \nAugust 13\, 2024 – Melissa Solares (Science Teacher; American School of Guatemala) \nAugust 14\, 2024 – Dr. Christina Thöne (Affiliated Scientist; Czech Academy of Sciences\, Astronomical Institute) \nAugust 15\, 2024 – TBD \nDay tours: Fully guided by our tour guides. \nPeople per tour: 25 \nSessions: 10am – 12pm\, and 14pm-4pm. \nFee: R50 per person \nChildren under 6: Free \nTour fees go towards the SAAO’s education\, public outreach\, and socio-economic development programs. Tour bookings must be paid in advance – no payments will be accepted on-site. \nThis is a secure site and all other buildings are off-limits to the public. \nFor queries\, please email cptbookings@saao.ac.za or call +27 21 447 0025. \n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/saaoopennights/
LOCATION:South African Astronomical Observatory\, Cape Town
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/JAN03166-HDR-Edit-21.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240806T100000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240815T160000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240731T133246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240812T072139Z
UID:10000033-1722938400-1723737600@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:South African Astronomical Observatory Day Tours
DESCRIPTION:Experience the wonders of the GA SAAO Day Tours from August 6th to 15th\, 2024. Each tour begins with an introduction to the observatory\, followed by an exciting exploration of the historic McClean telescope\, the observatory museum\, the library\, and our brand-new Visitor’s Centre. \nDay tours: Fully guided by our tour guides. \nPeople per tour: 25 \nSessions: 10am – 12pm\, and 2pm – 4pm. \nFee: R50 per person \nChildren under 6: Free \nTour fees go towards the SAAO’s education\, public outreach\, and socio-economic development programs. Tour bookings must be paid in advance – no payments will be accepted on-site. \nThis is a secure site and all other buildings are off-limits to the public. \nFor queries\, please email cptbookings@saao.ac.za or call +27 21 447 0025. \nBook Now: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/270468-ga-saao-day-tours/#/\n\n 
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/south-african-astronomical-observatory-day-tours/
LOCATION:South African Astronomical Observatory\, Cape Town
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/DJI_0895-HDR-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240801T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240815T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240710T175842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T155818Z
UID:10000010-1722499200-1723741200@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Visits to Schools/Communities (in person)
DESCRIPTION:Transport arrangements are being made for GA participants interested in volunteering for outreach  visits to various schools across Cape Town and surrounding areas.
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/visits-to-schools-communities-in-person/
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG-20230804-WA0020-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240729T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240811T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240710T182256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T154242Z
UID:10000016-1722240000-1723395600@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Outreach at astronomy facilities and organisations across Africa
DESCRIPTION:Visit local schools and communities in South Africa during National Science Week\nIn the week preceding the IAU-GA\, coordinated by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA)\, South Africa will celebrate its annual National Science Week\, scheduled for 29 July – 11 August. Participants are invited to engage in various activities by volunteering for outreach efforts across different regions of the country\, presenting a unique opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes.\nDelegates will collaborate with local science centres\, schools\, and the broader science engagement community to facilitate outreach and educational activities. These activities will include astronomy talks\, stargazing sessions\, and workshops. Additionally\, astronomers are encouraged to deliver public talks at universities not only in South Africa but also across the entire continent. \nCurrent Available Hosts (list to be updated):\n______________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Sustainable Tourism Partnership Programme \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Talk at Theatre with community together with star gazing experience in Victoria West in the Karoo \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Community \nDates for hosting the guests:  17 or 18 August 2024 \nContact Person: Caroline Ungersbock \nContact Email: caroline@stpp.co.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Christoph Meyer Maths & Science Centre \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: -outreach talks at schools and local community and potential career prospects in this field – raising awareness \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Learners/Community \nDates for hosting the guests:  2 – 4 August 2024 \nContact Person: Dorothy Mlambo \nContact Email: dorrymlambo@gmail.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: University of Pretoria \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach talks at schools and institutions. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  High school learners and university students \nDates for hosting the guests:  After March 2024 \nContact Person: Thephilus Matsepane \nContact Email: u21852155@tuks.co.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Unizulu Science Centre (University of Zululand) \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach talks\, workshops and activities in schools and during school visits to the Science Centre. Presentations during National Science week. Lectures and talks at the University of Zululand. Public interest talks in Richards Bay and Mtunzini \nIntended audience for the planned activities:Rural and township schools\, Science Centre visitors\, students and faculty at Unizulu\, general public \nDates for hosting the guests: Before OR after the GA. ie 29 July to 3 August (NSW) OR 19 to 23 August \nContact Person: Derek Fish \nContact Email: thefish@iafrica.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: University of Cape Town and SARAO Collaboration \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Workshop for Spanish-institutions based researchers as well as participants – mainly from Southern African countries – with professional links with Spain attending the meeting. These participants would have a half-a-day workshop prior to the IAU 2024 meeting in order to discuss the ways to increase such collaborations in the near future in both research topics\, exchange of students\, short visits and possibilities of co-funding PhDs\, experiments\, etc. Funding has been already secured from the Embassy of Spain to South Africa\, Government of Spain and the Ramon Areces Foundation. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Spanish-institutions based researchers as well as participants – mainly from Southern African countries – with professional links with Spain attending the meeting. Also a public talk at the Centre for the Book for non-specialized audiences where a collaboration between Southern Africa (South Africa in particular) and Spain is given. Attendance of the talk: around 50-70 people. Also\, some of the researchers could deliver talks in high schools of Western Cape teaching Spanish\, so the students could get a glimpse about the science (astronomy and related disciplines) made in Spain and in Spanish-speaking countries. Also a visit to the SAAO Cape Town for Spanish community resident in Cape Town could be organised. \nDates for hosting the guests:  Before 05 August 2024\, maybe 04 August or a day during the IAU meeting with no other activities for delegates. \nContact Person: Alvaro Dombriz \nContact Email: alvaro.delacruzdombriz@uct.ac.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: North-West University \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Workshop for educators\, outreach talks at schools\, Public lectures at the university. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Educators\, learners and students \nDates for hosting the guests:  5 & 6 or 7 August 2024 \nContact Person: Lerato Molebatsi \nContact Email: lerato.molebatsi@nwu.ac.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: NWU Potchefstroom  \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities:  \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Educator’s workshop\, Colloquium\, Talks at schools\, Role playing \nDates for hosting the guests:  6 – 8 August 2024 \nContact Person: Mogomotsi Moeng \nContact Email: Mogomotsi.Moeng@nwu.ac.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: DITSONG Museums of South Africa \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach talks to learners on site \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  School learners \nDates for hosting the guests:  5 and 6  August 2024 \nContact Person: Dinazana Legwase \nContact Email: bongi@ditsong.org.za \nWebsite: http://www.ditsong.org.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: South African National Space Agency \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach Talks at schools\, Space Public talks at SANSA\, Inhouse hands on activities at SANSA Science Center\, Educator Workshops \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Learners\, Teachers\, Students\, General Public and Researchers \nDates for hosting the guests:  7\, 8\, 13 and 14 August 2024 \nContact Person: Thandile Vuntu \nContact Email: tvuntu@sansa.org.za \nWebsite: http://www.sansa.org.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Nelson Mandela University \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: 2 public lectures\, night sky viewing with telescope\, symposium at the auditorium\, ocean views and galaxy formation at the planetarium and digital dome\, Outreach talks at Hilltown schools\, The university is situated in a game reserve called Nelson Mandela Nature reserve\, so a trial walk is inevitable\, Exhibition day of current work from entities/ departments of sciences \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Surrounding Schools\, students at the university\, and experts of the astronomical field and anyone interested in astronomy \nDates for hosting the guests:  18 July – 09 August 2024 \nContact Person: Azwinndini Muronga \nContact Email: science.marketing@mandela.ac.za \nWebsite: https://www.mandela.ac.za/ \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: ArcelorMittal Science Centre/SAASTEC \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Workshops ; Outreach talks to schools\, college  students and the public; sky viewing \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  teachers\, learners\, college students and the general public \nDates for hosting the guests:  06-15 August 2023 but can be before or after this period depending on the availability of the guests \nContact Person: Tebogo Habedi \nContact Email: tebogo@amsasciencecentre.co.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: GTCF \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Colloquium on Space Economy and Robotics\, Educational Robotics training workshops (aerial/terrestrial robots)\, Careers Exhibition & Talk: Astronomy and related careers in the 4IR\, Robotics Competition/Showpiece \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  TVET College Students\, Staff and Stakeholders\, schools in Mopani and out of school youth \nDates for hosting the guests:  01 August: Colloquium; 03 August  Careers Talk; 06 August Careers Exhibition  \nContact Person: Motshewa Maleta \nContact Email: pmaleta.gtcf@gmail.com \nWebsite: http://www.gtcf.org.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Stellenbosch University \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach talks\, popular talks\, colloquia\, Physics Department Open Day \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  School learners\, undergraduate students\, postgraduates in physics and astrophysics\, and the general public \nDates for hosting the guests:  29 July – 2 August 2024 \nContact Person: Anslyn John \nContact Email: anslyn@sun.ac.za \nWebsite: https://www.sun.ac.za/english \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Nelson Mandela Bay Science & Technology Centre \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach talks at schools\, host workshop with schools and community members at the facility based in Kariega \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Students from local schools\, educators\, and the general public with an interest in science and technology. Our goal is to inspire young minds\, provide educational support in the fields of science and technology\, and increase community engagement with scientific research and innovation \nDates for hosting the guests:  We are flexible with our hosting dates but are primarily looking to schedule these activities between 6-15 August 2024. The week before or after that would also work fine \nContact Person: Singathwa Poswa \nContact Email: singathwa.poswa@mbda.co.za \nWebsite: www.nmbstc.co.za \,  www.mbda.co.za \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: University of the Western Cape \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Visit our ARVR Innovation Hub and participate with learners in discovering astronomy \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Visiting academics\, science funding agencies and high school learners. \nDates for hosting the guests:  During the conference \nContact Person: Laurine  Platzky \nContact Email: lplatzky@uwc.ac.za \nWebsite: https://innovationhub.uwc.ac.za/ \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Sol Plaatje University \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Outreach Talks at Schools and Local Communities\, Seminars at the University \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  University Students and Public \nDates for hosting the guests:  ‘August 2024 \nContact Person: Owen Beukes \nContact Email: 202000695@spu.ac.za \nWebsite: https://www.spu.ac.za/ \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: University of Limpopo Science Centre \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Public Lecture at University\, Outreach talks at School\, Teacher Workshop\, Stargazing \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  School Learners and Teachers\, University students and Staff members and General Public \nDates for hosting the guests:  29 July-02 August 2024 \nContact Person: Sandile Rikhotso \nContact Email: sandile.rikhotso@ul.ac.za \nWebsite: https://www.ul.ac.za/index.php?Entity=spms_science_cen \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Tzaneen Science Centre \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: outreach talks at schools and TVET Colleges\, colloquiums\, robotics workshops\, stargazing\, astronomy careers orientation program\, nh4IR project development and resource mobilisation for indigenous knowledge  promotion in astronomy \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Learners and teachers in schools and TVET Colleges\, unemployed youth\, science centre staff\, government departments (education\, tourism\,  science & innovation)  \nDates for hosting the guests:  2 – 5 August \nContact Person: Motshewa Maleta \nContact Email:  pmaleta.gtcf@gmail.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nInstitution/Affiliation: Inter-university Institute for Data-intensive Astronomy (IDIA) \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: The overarching goal of the Inter-university Institute for Data-intensive Astronomy (IDIA) is to build within the South African university research community the capacity and expertise in data intensive research (using 4th Industrial Revolution tools such as cloud computing and virtual reality) to enable global leadership on MeerKAT large survey science projects and large projects on other SKA pathfinder telescopes. Delegates will be able to visit and engage with researchers and developers at the University of Cape Town (UCT)-based office for IDIA. During this time\, they can also choose to present their research at UCT\, and visit the IDIA Data Visualisation Lab\, based both at UCT and the Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Delegates; IDIA staff\, UCT staff and students \nDates for hosting the guests:  July – August 2024 (or anytime researchers wish to visit) \nContact Person: Sally Macfarlane \nContact Email: sally@idia.ac.za \nWebsite: https://idia.ac.za/ \, https://vislab.idia.ac.za/ \n\nVisit astronomy facilities and organisations across Africa\nDelegates will get the exciting opportunity to connect with communities across Africa\, embarking on a collective exploration of the wonders of astronomy. During this program\, delegates will be hosted at various official centres across Africa to conduct science\, outreach and education activities during August 2024 (before\, during\, and after the IAU GA2024). Our main objectives with this program are to foster networking opportunities\, shed light on the potential career prospects in this field\, and to engage as many individuals as possible to raise awareness in Africa about the captivating world of astronomy. This presents an incredible opportunity to create a real impact\, inspiring communities to ensure that the benefits of astronomy and scientific exploration are accessible to all. \nCurrent available hosts (list to be updated): \n___________________________________________________________ \nBotswana \nInstitution/Affiliation: Botswana International of Science and Technology \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Safari tour guides training\, outreach talks in schools (Junior and Secondary schools)\, Teacher training and star gazing shows for the general public. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Safari Tour guides\, Students\, Teachers\, tourists\, and the general public \nDates for hosting the guests:  29 July 2024 – 02 August 2024 \nContact Person: Kushatha Ntwaetsile \nContact Email: ntwaetsilek@biust.ac.bw \n ______________________________________________________ \nBurkina Faso  \nInstitution/Affiliation: Universit Joseph KI ZERBO \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: School \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Students and schools teachers \nDates for hosting the guests:  From 1 July 2024 \nContact Person: Zacharie KAM \nContact Email: zacharie.kam@ujkz.bf \n ______________________________________________________ \nEgypt \nInstitution/Affiliation: The British University in Egypt \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Primarily interested in public talks on topical subjects in astrophysics and cosmology by established scientists. Talks may be given at the British University in Egypt\, in collaboration with student groups and astronomy clubs at Egyptian universities. Can also arrange for public talks at other universities and at the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  University students (not necessarily limited to science students). Also high school students and the general public. \nDates for hosting the guests:  Early March 2024 is ideal\, but almost any other time is feasible (except during Ramadan\, which is from about 10 March to 9 April) \nContact Person: Amr El-Zant \nContact Email: amr.elzant@bue.edu.eg \n___________________________________________________________ \nEthiopia \nInstitution/Affiliation: Dambi Dollo University\, Ethiopian Space Science Society Dambi Dollo Branch \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Variable Star Astronomy for promoting science education. Indigenous Astronomy\, Solar Science \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Students\, Teachers\, Researcher and Decission makers \nDates for hosting the guests:  August \nContact Person: Abduselam Mohammed Yasin \nContact Email: abdiphy@gmail.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nNamibia \nInstitution/Affiliation: Africa Millimeter Telescope \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: outreach talks at schools (and universities) and local communities\, radio interviews\, mobile planetarium school visits\, telescope outreach activities (star gazing evenings) etc. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  University students\, schools students\, general public \nDates for hosting the guests:  29 July – 23 August \nContact Person: Zandr Duvenhage \nContact Email: zandre.duvenhage@ru.nl \n___________________________________________________________ \nNamibia \nInstitution/Affiliation: University of Namibia (UNAM) & Namibia Scientific Society (NSS) \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: outreach talks at schools and local communities\, workshops\, colloquium at Institutes \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  School learners\, general public\, university students (under- and postgraduate) \nDates for hosting the guests:  about 22 July – 31 August\, but also longer \nContact Person: Michael Backes \nContact Email: mbackes@unam.na \n___________________________________________________________ \nNigeria \nInstitution/Affiliation: Space Tourism Society Africa\, Lead City University \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Talk at Schools\, visit to space center\, and most importantly meet with the Head of the University. \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Secondary school students and some university students \nDates for hosting the guests:  From 26 June 2024 \nContact Person: Paul Oladunni \nContact Email: spacemediatechnologies@yahoo.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nNigeria \nInstitution/Affiliation: Nigerian Space Agency/Astronomers Without Borders (AWB) Nigeria \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Schools outreach\, IDP camps outreach\, visit to the Space Agency\, Space Museum\, Side Walk Astronomy events\, courtesy visits to Government offices directly involved with Space programs/STEM \nIntended audience for the planned activities:  Hundreds of School kids\, kids at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps\, government officials\, general public \nDates for hosting the guests:  Pre and post IAU GA \nContact Person: Olayinka Fagbemiro \nContact Email: yinkaojay@gmail.com \n___________________________________________________________ \nTunisia \nInstitution/Affiliation: Monastir Science Palace / Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research \nPlanned Outreach\, Education or Science activities: Workshops\, Hands on science activities\, meeting\, camps\, festival … \nIntended audience for the planned activities: Public \nDates for hosting the guests:  July and/or August 2024 \nContact Person: Slimene Sedrette \nContact Email: ssedrette@gmail.com \n 
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/outreach-at-astronomy-facilities-and-organisations-across-africa/
CATEGORIES:Africa Astro Month,Participants
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MeerKATDeep2_compositeV4-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240729T000000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240815T233000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240715T153453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T154242Z
UID:10000025-1722211200-1723764600@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:Meet an Astronomer (Virtual)
DESCRIPTION:Virtual Sessions with Astronomers during the IAU General Assembly 2024\nAddressed to: schools\, science centers and educational organisations across Africa \nThis is a unique opportunity for schools\, science centers and various other organisations across Africa to engage with leading astronomers through virtual sessions. These sessions aim to inspire and educate learners\, teachers\, students and the public about the wonders of the universe\, recent discoveries\, and the importance of astronomical research. \nThese sessions can be scheduled from 29 July – 15 August. \nVirtual Session Opportunities: \n-Interactive Q&A sessions: Engage with astronomers in real-time\, ask questions\, and learn about their research. \n-Educational Presentations: Attend virtual lectures on various astronomy topics tailored for different age groups and knowledge levels. \n-Teacher training sessions on specific curriculum-aligned topics \nWe invite you to request a virtual session for your institution by filling out the registration form available on our website. Please provide details about your preferred dates\, topics of interest\, target group\, and the age group of your audience to help us tailor the sessions to your needs. \nHow to Request a Session: \nComplete the registration form with your details and preferences. Submit the form\, and our team will get in touch with you to confirm the arrangements. \n 
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/meet-an-astronomer-virtual/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Participants,Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Instagram-Posts-1-e1721057765533.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240630T080000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240630T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240710T192534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T155832Z
UID:10000021-1719734400-1719766800@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:#AfricaLookUp “The Beauty of Astronomy” Art Competition
DESCRIPTION:#AfricaLookUp “The Beauty of Astronomy” Art Competition \nCalling all Young African Artists! \nUnder the #AfricaLookUp campaign\, the International Astronomical Union General Assembly 2024 (IAU GA) and the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Outreach and Education committee\, in partnership with the University of the Western Cape (UWC)\, South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO)\, Iziko Museums of South Africa\, North West University (NWU) and the Inter-University Institute for Data-Intensive Astronomy (IDIA)\, are thrilled to announce “The Beauty of Astronomy” online art competition. \nThis is your chance to showcase your talent and explore the universe through your creativity! Whether you’re in primary\, secondary\, or university\, we encourage you to create art inspired by the awe-inspiring world of astronomy and its impact on humanity. \nThe goal of “The Beauty of Astronomy” is to spark your imagination and ignite your passion for astronomy. We want you to delve into astronomical concepts\, research them\, and then translate them into captivating works of art. \nThink about the vastness of space\, the mesmerizing beauty of celestial bodies\, and the groundbreaking discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Consider how astronomy intertwines with our daily lives. Let these ideas flow freely and transform them into a unique piece of art. \nThis competition is more than just showcasing artistic talent. It’s about rewriting the narrative about Africa. By sharing your stories\, experiences\, and encounters with astronomy through your art\, you’ll help dismantle misconceptions and reveal the true essence of Africa – a continent brimming with cultural richness\, diversity\, and boundless potential. \nRules and regulations \n\nArtwork should be the original design and creative work of the learner/s/student/s\nArtwork should not contain any potentially offensive or inappropriate material for public display. Such posters will be excluded from the competition.\nE-posters should not be bigger than 25 MB\nNot allowed to use ChatGPT\nOnly one submission per individual or group is allowed and in a single file.\nBy submitting\, students and teachers give permission for their work to be displayed at various events\, publications\, promotional material\, and in electronic format on the internet without expectation of royalties or benefits.\nThe judges’ decision is final.\nSelected Posters and e-posters will be featured in an Exhibition at the International Astronomical Union’s General Assembly\, as well as during the 2024 South African National Science Week. The artwork will be showcased at different centres across the country.\n\nWho can apply?  \n1) Primary school learners \n2) Secondary school learners \n3) University Students \nHow to apply? \n\nSubmissions: Photograph to be taken of the physical poster and E-Poster to be submitted via the Form below.\nWhen submitting\, provide your full name\, contact details\, and name of the school/institution you are attending AND grade with a brief introduction of your artwork (Max of 100 Words).\nUploaded artwork files must be named “Artwork2024_Fullname”. (“Full name” is the artist’s first and last name)\n\nDeadline: 30 June 2024
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/africalookup-the-beauty-of-astronomy-art-competition/
CATEGORIES:Participants
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/IMG_6542-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240615T190000
DTEND;TZID=Africa/Johannesburg:20240615T220000
DTSTAMP:20260728T114226
CREATED:20240710T191319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240730T155852Z
UID:10000020-1718478000-1718488800@astronomy2024.org
SUMMARY:#AfricaLookUp to the Art Open Night at South African Astronomical Observatory
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the Next Open night on the 15th of June 2024\nThis event no longer exists on Quicket. To view more events online visit Quicket. \n#AfricaLookUp to the Arts \nJoyful Mdhluli & Moleboge Lekoloane \nOn Saturday the 18th of May\, we hosted another special edition of the SAAO Open Nights known as the #AfricaLookUp to the Arts (ALUTTA) Open Nights\, where Science meets Art.  \nThe aim of the evening was to host an art exhibition that displayed sketches of the Observatory by members of Urban Sketchers Cape Town and to sketch the current state of the Observatory. What started off as a simple conversation with the lady we saw sitting under a tree on-site sketching – who we later learned is Diana Metcalf – turned into an evening of knowledge sharing and capturing of moments.  \nFor those who have had the pleasure of partaking in the SAAO history tour\, I’m certain that you have seen the iconic sketches of the Observatory from the early 1800’s in the Library. One of the precious items we have on-site are drawings from artists such as Thomas William Bowler who worked for the Royal Observatory from 1834 – 1835 and became one of South Africa’s greatest artists. What was planned for this open night was to capture the current state of the Observatory through sketches\, and compare it with sketches from the 20th century. With the most recent sketches\, one notices cranes and more buildings in the background\, exhibiting the change of the Observatory over the years. What might be normal to us now\, might be very valuable to the next generation. This is exactly what we aimed to do\, capture the moments not just for us but for coming generations. \nThrough Diana and SALT’s very own Software Engineer Anthony Koeslag\, we were lucky enough to have the sketchers document the evening as it happened. The Urban Sketchers team prepared an informative presentation about Urban Sketching\, its history\, what it’s like to be part of the community\, and most importantly\, Diana shared with us her project at the SAAO called “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star…52 Weeks of Reportage Ramblings at SAAO”. The project involves Diana spending 52 weeks at the Observatory sketching the site and trying to recreate some of the sketches done by other artists. \nWe were honoured to have the newly appointed OAD Deputy Director & the Interim Head of Secretariat\, Charles Takalana give a presentation about the recent developments in Astronomy highlighting the importance of SALT & MeerKAT/SKAO telescopes. The presentation also highlighted the significance of Astronomy to art. We also had the SARAO Managing Director\, Pontso Maruping in the audience.  \nThe Urban Sketchers and the art exhibition were not the only highlights of the evening. We collaborated with the Africa Week Project to launch their opening event in celebration of Africa Week. The Africa Week project is a week-long collaborative effort that aims to utilize the globally celebrated Africa Day on 25th May to bring attention to narratives of the continent and to share inspiration for visions of the future that can guide experimentation in the present. Initiated in 2023\, it now serves as an annual gathering place for individuals across sectors and disciplines and a testing ground for connecting thoughts\, ideas\, and visions for the future as part of The Africa Week Project.  \nAfrica Week is an annual opportunity to bring attention to an Africa in Transition and support one another on the journey to reimagine and negotiate the future of the continent in the present. Coordinated by a small team\, the week is supported by organizations and institutions across various sectors and disciplines who use a resource exchange network to host\, facilitate in-person and/or online dialogue\, activities\, experiences\, and initiatives for the local\, African context.  \nThe launch of Africa Week was a success and a wonderful predecessor to the #AfricaLookUp to the Arts Open Night. During the session\, we went back to Africa’s history\, particularly South Africa’s journey towards democracy over the past 30 years. We explored what freedom means for the continent’s young people and reflected on where we stand today\, especially with over 60% of African countries heading to the polls. It was truly inspiring to hear an elderly woman share her experiences of the struggles in 1970s South Africa and the remarkable progress made for women across Africa. What an exciting time to be African! We have a unique opportunity to contribute positively to the continent’s future.  \nAs part of the entertainment\, we were honored to have Onesimo Siyothula sing us a beautiful Italian Opera song. To quote Diana on her experience of the evening as she shared in her sketch pad: “What an incredible voice to launch Africa Week opening up a circle of transparency as other voices were heard. It was a beautiful patchwork evening of events and memories\, sketching and shared hope for Africa. I feel quite humbled to be on this creative journey which already has me being part of something so much bigger than myself.” \nSodam Suleob\, one of the presenters of the Urban Sketchers team shared her experience of the evening: “I also learned about how art can facilitate difficult conversations\, such as those about ‘freedom’ or ‘Africanity’. With creative storytelling\, it can help many Africans learn about astronomy and move forward into a better future. We had an opera singer\, poet\, skechers\, and many others from different disciplines opening up conversations.” \nThis was a significant event highlighting the significance of merging Art with Science and the importance of understanding our African history.  \n\n\nUpdates from the first ALUTTA Open Night \nOn Saturday the 20th of April\, we hosted our first special edition of the SAAO Open Nights known as the #AfricaLookUp to the Arts (ALUTTA) Open Nights. The ALUTTA open nights are scheduled to happen every 3rd Saturday of the Month in addition to the usual SAAO Open Nights that happen every 2nd and 4th Saturday. \nThe ALUTTA Open Nights are a project under the #AfricaLookUp campaign which is part of the outreach initiatives for the IAU General Assembly. The 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 African night skies. The 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. \nFor the first Open Night\, the focus was on Storytelling. The aim of the evening was to create a theatrical performance of a storytelling session that weaved together African folklore\, mythology\, and astronomical themes. The performances explored indigenous African knowledge systems and cultural beliefs. Our guests for the evening included our very own Education and Outreach Officer Buzani Khumalo as well as retired Astronomy and Indigenous Astronomy presenter from Iziko Planetarium\, Temba Matomela. The stories were enhanced with a captivating performance of singing and dancing by iThemba Youth Choir.  iThemba Youth Choir is a group of young individuals passionate about music who brought the story shared by Buzani to life. \nThe evening was well attended and it was a pleasure to see the excitement on the faces of the audience. Our storytellers and the choir put on a wonderful and inspiring show. It was very interesting to see that different cultures relate to celestial objects and the night sky in similar ways. We had the opportunity to learn how the Zulu and Xhosa cultures relate to Venus\, we also learned how celestial objects were used in the past as a means of communication amongst other things. We hope to see more people join us at the Observatory for these events where we try to bring life to Astronomy through the Arts. \nUnfortunately due to bad weather\, we could not treat our guests to some stargazing; however\, the evening concluded with a history tour of the Observatory.  \nWe would like to extend a special thank you to the volunteers who were present during the open night\, our guest speakers\, and most importantly the organisers of the evening. For highlights of the evening\, be sure to follow the AfAS social media accounts. We hope to see YOU at the next Open Night that will take place on 18 May 2024.
URL:https://astronomy2024.org/event/africalookup-to-the-art-open-night-at-south-african-astronomical-observatory/
CATEGORIES:Participants
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://astronomy2024.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG_5579-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR