Home - The Southern African Regional Office Of Astronomy for Development

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH ASTRONOMY

Our Mission is to help further the use of astronomy as a tool for development by mobilizing human and financial resources necessary to realise its scientific, technological and cultural benefits to society.

James Webb Space Telescope NIRCam Image of the “Cosmic Cliffs” in Carina Nebula
NASA ID: carina_nebula

About us

Together, we can unlock new opportunities for Southern Africa—through the stars!

8 August 2014, Kitwe, Zambia: The International Astronomical Union (IAU) signed an agreement with the Copperbelt University (CBU) to host a Southern African regional node of the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD). This became the second regional node to be established on the African continent after the East African Regional node and forms part of the IAU’s decadal strategic plan, which aims to realize the global societal benefits of astronomy. The signing follows the approval of a proposal from CBU which enjoyed the support of astronomy collaborators in Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and South Africa, including the South African Square Kilometre Array Project Office.

ACTIVITIES

what We Do

outreach Programs

Empowering the next generation of explorers. Discover how SAROAD's astronomy outreach inspires students and advances scientific literacy for society.

astro-Tourism

Southern Africa’s celestial magic: stargazing safaris, desert astronomy & galactic vistas. Your cosmic adventure starts here!

Astronomy For Mental Health

How stargazing reduces stress & anxiety—discover astronomy’s therapeutic power to quiet the mind and reconnect with the universe.

Hack4Skills

Advancing the IAU’s vision: Harnessing astronomy to tackle poverty, inequality, and inspire the next generation of scientists.

Astro Lab

Step into the Astro Lab: A hub for processing celestial images, discovering asteroids, and conducting hands-on astronomical research.

Opportunities

Explore careers in astronomy, from research to outreach. Discover funding, internships, and how to turn your passion for the cosmos into a profession.

Explore Our Member Countries

countries

SAROAD’s membership comprises nations across the Southern African region, uniting a diverse bloc to advance astronomy collaboratively. Key member countries typically include Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Malawi, Madagascar, Kenya (SKA Partner) and Ghana (SKA Partner), pooling resources and expertise for shared growth in astrophysics

saul paul Phiri

Regional Coordinator

jackson Siantuba

Administrative Officer

astronomy inspires smiles

get to know the secretariate

we enjoy their Programs

what our members have to say

"Since starting my MSc in 2023, SAROAD has been instrumental to my growth as an astronomer from Nigeria. The programs have provided invaluable exposure through conferences and outreach, significantly advancing my academic journey."

Nicholas Chidi JosephMsc Student, The Copperbelt University

"Through SAROAD, I've experienced how genuine inclusivity strengthens teamwork and leads to the successful execution of transformative projects. It's a testament to what a united astronomical community can achieve."

Emmanuel TemboVisual artist and creative

My association with the SAROAD office has provided valuable exposure to astronomy activities and vital guidance. Their support and coordination keep me informed of research and learning opportunities, fostering an environment that encourages my growth in astronomy.

Naomi NalwimbaMaster of Science in Astrophysics Student, Copperbelt University

The Southern African Regional Office Of Astronomy for Development