African Astronomical Society

African Astronomical Society

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African Astronomical Society (AfAS) is the Pan-African professional society for astronomers.

The call for a Pan-African professional society of astronomers goes back several years. In 2008 both Peter Martinez (South Africa) and Pius Okeke (Nigeria) published articles on ways to develop astronomy in Africa, the latter specifically calling for the formation of a Pan-African African Astronomical Society. Regional professional astronomical societies had been formed in both West Africa and Ea

14/08/2026

AfNWA–AfAS Seed Funding Call

AfNWA, in collaboration with the AfAS Education & Outreach Committee, is inviting applications for seed funding of €250–€400 per project.

The funding supports astronomy and STEM outreach activities in Africa that empower girls living in disadvantaged communities and circumstances, including rural and remote areas, refugee and IDP settlements, conflict-affected communities, and out-of-school girls.

Have an initiative in mind? Apply and help create opportunities for girls through astronomy and STEM!

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 14/08/2026

Recent astronomical observations in Casablanca with the Steps Into Space association. Participants took part in a workshop on sunspot formation and utilized solar-filtered telescopes to view sunspots safely. The event concluded with a guided observation of the partial solar eclipse using specialized protective glasses.

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 14/08/2026

Solar Eclipse Observation in Soliman, Tunisia

On 12 August 2026, a solar eclipse observation event was held in Soliman, Tunisia, in partnership with the Tunisian Astronomical Society.

The activity was supported by the delegation of Soliman, whose excellent coordination and logistical support helped make the event a success. The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Soliman also contributed to the activity.

A great example of local collaboration and public engagement in astronomy during the 12 August solar eclipse!

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 14/08/2026

Solar Eclipse Observation in Tunisia

On 12 August 2026, an observation activity was held at the Belhassen Chadhli Plateau in Tunis, bringing together His Eminence the Grand M***i of Tunisia, the Director General of the National Institute of Meteorology, Institute staff, and members of the public.

The event highlighted the strong public engagement and interest in astronomy surrounding the partial solar eclipse in Tunisia. The activity also received media coverage from the Tunisian Television Corporation.

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 14/08/2026

Highlights from 12th August solar eclipse observation in Ifrane, Morocco.

The event was held at a children’s camp hosted by the Al Fath Association for Education and Development and led by Dr. Hassan Talibi.

Around 40 people took part in the observation, with free protective eclipse glasses provided to all attendees. An additional 30 people from the surrounding area were also provided with glasses to ensure safe viewing.

A wonderful opportunity to bring astronomy closer to the community.

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 14/08/2026

During yesterday’s event in Marrakech, organized by AGM Atlas Golf Marrakech in collaboration with 3AM - Association d’Astronomes Amateurs de Marrakech and ADSF - Atlas Dark Sky Foundation and Oukaimden Observatory

African Astronomical Society 13/08/2026

Discover What’s Happening in African Astronomy!

Looking for the latest astronomy activities, events, livestreams, opportunities, news and updates from across Africa?

The African Astronomical Society (AfAS) website brings everything together in one place!

Visit our website to explore what’s happening across the African astronomy community, keep up with upcoming activities and events, and access the latest resources and updates.

Explore the AfAS website: https://afasociety.org/

We also want to showcase astronomy activities happening across Africa!

If you are organising an astronomy event, outreach activity, observing session or other astronomy-related activity, send us your photos, updates and information so we can help share them with the wider African astronomy community.

Send your photos and updates to [email protected] or [email protected].

Let’s celebrate and share the amazing astronomy activities happening across our continent!

African Astronomical Society Telescope project equips African universities with practical radio astronomy teaching tools to boost interest in STEM fields

12/08/2026

Solar Eclipse Public Observing in Marrakech!

On 12 August 2026, astronomy enthusiasts in Marrakech will gather at Atlas Golf Marrakech for a public observing activity during the partial solar eclipse.

Organised in collaboration with Oukaïmeden Observatory and 3AM (Associations Astronomes Amateurs Marrakech), the event starts at 18:30 and will feature safe solar observations and explanations for the public. The eclipse will reach a maximum of approximately 82.9% in Marrakech.

Participants will also receive certified solar eclipse glasses free of charge, kindly provided by AfAS during the IAU General Assembly 2024 in Cape Town.

📍 Atlas Golf Marrakech
🕡 18:30
🔭 Safe solar observing & public astronomy

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 11/08/2026

The eclipse is tomorrow!

On 12 August 2026, communities across Africa will come together to observe and share this exciting astronomical event.

Are you organising or taking part in an eclipse-related activity? Whether it’s a public observing event, school activity, outreach programme, livestream, or something else, we’d love to hear from you!

Post about your activity and tag us on our social media, or send us a short description, location, organisation involved, and a few photos or visuals at [email protected]. We may feature your activities on AfAS social media after the event.

Find eclipse information, observing resources, posters in English, French and Arabic, and more through https://afasociety.org/solar-12-august-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com on the AfAS website.

Let’s showcase how African astronomy communities are coming together to look up!

Photos from African Astronomical Society's post 04/08/2026

Celebrating National Science Month 2026 through astronomy outreach!

Throughout National Science Month 2026, AfAS joined outreach programmes at schools and community venues across the Western Cape, sharing the wonders of astronomy with learners, educators, and local communities.

Together with our partners, we explored the Universe through interactive activities, highlighted exciting careers in STEM, and demonstrated how astronomy drives innovation and impacts our everyday lives.

Our outreach journey included:
• 18 Jul – Simanyene High School, Lwandle
• 24 Jul – SANPC Campus, Parow
• 27 Jul – Sonieke High School, Kuils River
• 28 Jul – COSAT, Ilitha Park, Khayelitsha
• 29 Jul – Protea Heights Academy, Brackenfell
• 30 Jul – Khayelitsha Public Library
• 31 Jul – Langa Baptist Church

A heartfelt thank you to our partners, educators, and every learner who joined us in exploring Astronomy. Together, we're inspiring curiosity, nurturing future scientists, and helping shape the future of African astronomy "one conversation at a time."

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01 Observatory Road
Observatory
7925