Minister Blade Nzimande To Open World's Largest Astronomy Meeting

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of South Africa Blade Nzimande is all set to give the opening speech at the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU), the world's largest astronomy meeting.

The two-week event will start on Tuesday in Cape Town, marking the first time the meeting is being held in Africa. It will be both in-person and virtual, allowing anyone from around the world to attend.

The minister's speech will emphasize Africa's commitment to advancing astronomy and science globally. He will also highlight South Africa's significant investments in skills and infrastructure.

The speech will also delve into the benefits of the clear southern skies in the Karoo, the country's strong engineering and scientific base and its improving international standing and partnerships.

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) said on Monday that famous astronomers Dr. Mae Jemison and Dr. Sian Proctor will speak at the assembly. Jemison was the first African American woman to travel into space when she went on the NASA Space Shuttle Endeavour on Sept. 12, 1992.

Proctor is an astronaut and was the first female pilot of a commercial spaceship. The DSI said these two experts will address over 2,000 astronomers from around the world at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

"The assembly is an opportunity for astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in various specialized areas," as per the department, SA News reported.

Other guests include Dr. Bernie Fanaroff, the former director of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), who will give a talk on "Innovating at the Periphery: The Development of SKA and MeerKAT."

The IAU General Assembly is held every three years and is organized by the African Astronomical Society. Each assembly promotes global collaboration in astronomy and celebrates Africa's rich history and dedication to the field.

This year's General Assembly marks a major milestone, showing Africa's increasing role in the global astronomy community and its potential for important contributions to research and development.

The hybrid event, which is hosted by the National Research Foundation and supported by the DSI, will feature over 2,000 presentations spread across more than 300 sessions.

"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 department said.

The General Assembly will include six symposia and 12 multi-session focus meetings. There will also be poster sessions and prize lectures given by recipients of prestigious awards in astronomy.