Summary
The mission of the AAS is to “enhance and share humanity's scientific understanding of the universe as a diverse and inclusive astronomical community”. At present, our community finds itself at a crucial turning point, particularly regarding equity and inclusion. Recognizing the importance of addressing these and broader issues around astronomy’s societal impact, the International Astronomical Union established the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) over a decade ago. This initiative leverages the field of astronomy, including its practitioners, skills, and infrastructures, as a catalyst for development. By mobilizing the necessary human and financial resources, the OAD strives to unlock the scientific, technological, and cultural benefits that astronomy offers to society.
In 2020, we took a significant step towards fostering collaboration and progress in North America by establishing the North American Regional Office of Astronomy for Development (NA-ROAD). Joining a network of eleven regional OAD offices worldwide, NA-ROAD facilitates the exchange of resources, best practices, and network building between initiatives focused on astronomy for development. Through this collaborative effort, we aim to advance our shared mission and contribute to the positive impact of astronomy for the betterment of our society.
The AAS has never held a Special Session highlighting the societal impact of astronomy through astronomy for development and diplomacy. This Special Session will serve to inform as well as provide a platform for participation of our AAS community into these efforts.
We propose a 90-minute Special Session on the topic of Astronomy for Development, Astronomy for Diplomacy, and Societal Impacts of Astronomy, featuring a panel discussion and Q&A. We welcome the reviewers feedback and suggestions on who to invite as panelists. In the next field is an initial list of candidates.
The Special Session is co-organized by Kevin Govender and the NA-ROAD Governing Council*. We also plan to organize an associated series of short talks that will take place in the theater on the Exhibition floor, via our AUI/AURA sponsorship access. The speakers highlighted in these talks will amplify diverse perspectives and voices (e.g., including a speaker working on astronomy for development in the New Orleans area, a speaker in the field of workforce development for incarcerated individuals, etc.)
Additional information about the NA-ROAD:
The activities of the NA-ROAD are organized around five strategic goals: 1) Advance the use of astronomy for science diplomacy, with collaborative activities that bridge across countries and cultures, 2) Advance the use of astronomy and astronomy facilities/resources to support economic development in local communities through both astronomy and non-astronomy activities, 3) Advance the use of astronomy to facilitate STEM education and outreach, in collaboration with the OAE, OAO, and OAD, 4) Promote productive employment opportunities and sustained career pathways for adults in astronomy and astronomy adjacent fields. 5) Advance the collaboration and sharing of astronomical knowledge to promote connections with and to support the general well-being of Indigenous communities and peoples.
These goals dovetail intentionally with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals; in particular:
Goal 4: Quality Education,
Goal 5: Gender Equality
Goal 8: Decent work and Economic Growth,
Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,
Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
*Session Organizers:
Kevin Govender, Director, IAU Office of Astronomy for Development, kg@astro4dev.org
Shari Lifson, AURA, NA-ROAD Governing Council Member, slifson@aura-astronomy.org
Tim Spuck, AUI, NA-ROAD Governing Council Member, tspuck@aui.edu
Laura Trouille, VP Science Engagement, Zooniverse Co-PI, Adler Planetarium, NA-ROAD Governing Council Member, ltrouille@adlerplanetarium.org, trouille@zooniverse.org
Yasmin Catricheo, AUI, NA-ROAD Governing Council Member, ycatricheo@aui.edu