The world’s largest astronomy meeting kicks off in Cape Town today, featuring a global assembly of astronomers and experts at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
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It is the first time the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU) is held in Africa. According to the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), world-renowned astronomers Dr Mae Jemison and Dr Sian Proctor will address the assembly.
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On 12 September 1992, Jemison became the first female African-American commercial astronaut and mission pilot to travel to space when she entered orbit aboard National Administration and Space Administration’s (NASA) Space Shuttle Endeavour.
Proctor, also an astronaut, was the first female pilot of a commercial spaceship.
The DSI said Jemison and Proctor will speak to more than 2 000 astronomers from across the globe in Cape Town.
‘The assembly is an opportunity for astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in various specialised areas.’
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande will speak on the geographical advantages of clear southern skies in the Karoo, its engineering and scientific base, and its growing international ranking and partnerships.
‘One highlight will be the opportunity for attendees to speak to the astronauts on board the International Space Station live from the conference venue via ham radio, in partnership with Amateur Radio on the International Space Station,’ the DSI said.
In addition, former director of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Dr Bernie Fanaroff will discuss the development of SKA and MeerKAT.
The IAU General Assembly is led by the African Astronomical Society and is held every three years. This year, it is hosted by the National Research Foundation, supported by the DSI.
It will include six symposia and 12 multi-session focus meetings, poster sessions and prize lectures.
Exhibitors will include the South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), the South African Astronomical Observatory, NASA, the European Space Agency and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, the US National Radio Astronomy Observatory, and several South African agencies.
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Picture: SKA Observatory / Facebook