The stars are aligning in Cape Town this August, and I’m not just talking about the clear Karoo skies. The Mother City is about to host the biggest astronomy shindig on the planet.
As a person who still harbours the hope of going to space one day (hey, NASA, if you’re reading this, I’m available!), the thought of rubbing shoulders with actual astronauts has me over the moon.
32nd General Assembly of the IAU
The 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU) is coming to our shores from 6 to 15 August, and it’s bringing some serious star power.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, is set to kick things off with the opening address.
Now, I’ve always wondered if Blade ever dreamed of being an astronaut as a kid. Maybe he’ll spill the beans during his speech.
Dr Mae Jemison and Dr Sian Proctor will be gracing us with their presence.
For those who’ve been living under a moon rock, Jemison was the first African-American woman to venture into space.
Meanwhile Proctor – whom I’ve been following on social media for a while now – piloted a commercial spaceship.
A first for SA astronomy
This cosmic convention isn’t just about starry-eyed admirers like me geeking out, though.
It’s a big deal for Africa.
For the first time ever, our continent is hosting this astronomical extravaganza. It’s like we’re finally getting our invite to the galactic party, and we’re determined to show up in style.
The event is set to showcase South Africa’s impressive astronomy chops.
From our cutting-edge telescopes in the Karoo to our top-notch scientists, we’re proving that Africa is more than ready to take on the final frontier.
Chat to an astronaut
One of the highlights that has me practically bouncing off the walls is the chance for attendees to chat with astronauts on the International Space Station.
Live.
Via ham radio.
I mean, come on! That’s the closest I’ll get to space communication until SpaceX finally returns my calls.
The academic programme is packed with over 2,000 presentations across more than 300 sessions.
It’s like Comic-Con for astronomers, minus the cosplay (although I wouldn’t be surprised if someone shows up dressed like Neil deGrasse Tyson).
But it’s not all about the bigwigs and the boffins.
Astronomy for everyone
The event is also reaching out to learners, students, and the public with ‘Africa Astro Month’. They’re saying, “Hey, space is for everyone!”
And I couldn’t agree more.
So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer, a curious student, or just someone who likes to look up at the night sky and wonder “what if,” this event has something for you.
And who knows? Maybe it’ll inspire the next generation of African astronauts.
As for me, I’ll be following along with stars in my eyes, soaking up every moment.
