386th International Astronomical Union Symposium Kicks Off in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa November 13/2023 (ENA)The 386th International Astronomical Union Symposium on Dark Sky and Astronomical Heritage kicked off today in Addis Ababa.

The Symposium is organized under the theme “Dark Sky and Astronomical Heritage in Boosting Astro-tourism around the World.” 

The five day symposium is organized by the International Astronomical Union in partnership with Ethiopian Space Science and Spatial Institute as well as Ministry of Innovation and Technology and Ministry of Tourism.   

The symposium focuses on presenting research findings and sharing experiences to enhance the preservation and utilization of dark skies, discussing mechanisms for boosting astro-tourism worldwide.

It also attempts to explore strategies for utilizing and investing in untapped dark sky areas around the world.

The symposium brought together scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the globe to discuss critical issues like dark sky preservation, astro-tourism development, light pollution mitigation, and protection of astronomical heritage sites.

More than 200 participants from around the world are attending the five days symposium.

In addition to the main symposium, there will be several side events including an African Planetarium Workshop, capacity building training sessions, and public lectures aimed at boosting interest in astronomy, it was learned.

The symposium is the 4th International Astronomical Union symposium held in Africa and the 2nd in Ethiopia.