SAAO Science Engagement

14/08/2026

Tune in to Ikhwezi FM on 15 August.

Tune in to Radio Khwezi this Saturday, 15 August at 15:15 as Ms Duduzile Kubheka, Project Coordinator for BRICS Astronomy, joins Sizwe Zungu for an engaging conversation on understanding our universe and why Astronomy matters.

The discussion will explore what astronomy is, why understanding our universe matters, the role of astronomy in inspiring young people to pursue STEM, and the opportunities available in astronomy and related fields

07/08/2026

We put together the 5th e-Newsletter Issue, celebrating 20 years of the Southern African Large Telescope science and its involvement in follow-up research with the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, research on Near-Earth Objects using Lesedi telescope at the South African Astronomical Observatory in Sutherland, and a career journey in astronomy. Enjoy reading: https://newsletters.saao.ac.za/newsletter-article/chasing-near-earth-asteroids-with-the-lesedi-telescope/

27/07/2026

The National Research Foundation would like to hear your stories about how you became a researcher so that you can be celebrated for the wonderful work you are doing in advancing knowledge.

Profile submissions close this Friday!

Every research journey starts with a question. This Women's Month, the NRF celebrates women driven by curiosity — researchers whose questions, ideas and determination are expanding our understanding of the world around us. From exploring the unknown to deepening our existing knowledge, curiosity remains at the heart of discovery.

We invite stories from women researchers who have an affiliation with the NRF; its national research facilities (NRF-SAAO, NRF-iThemba LABS, NRF-SAIAB, NRF-SAEON, and NRF-SARAO); NRF-SAASTA; Centres of Excellence; and Research Chairs. The affiliation can be through various programmes (e.g. funding, ratings, recognition awards), employment, or any other opportunities offered by the NRF.

All you have to do is:
1. Follow this link to the NRF's website: https://www.nrf.ac.za/invitation-womens-month-stories-2026/
2. Download the NRF Women's Month Questionnaire (look for the black "Download" button at the bottom of the page)
3. Complete the questions
4. Send your questionnaire, along with one or two high-quality photos of yourself, back to us

Submission deadline: 31 July 2026

Details: https://www.nrf.ac.za/invitation-womens-month-stories-2026/

25/07/2026

Yesterday, we spent a few hours with learners from various schools around the Western Cape at South African National Petroleum Company located at PetroSA. We were a huge cohort from National Research Foundation, South African Astronomical Observatory, BRICS Astronomy, IThemba LABS, African Astronomical Society and IAU Office of Astronomy for Development. Some of us were exhibiting while others were part of the program introducing science careers to learners. The group was very inquisitive with some asking key questions about the importance of South Africa investing in science. The program exposed not only learners to many careers in science, among ourselves we also marvelled at the sheer number of science opportunities that exist that we never heard about growing up. The event is part of the ongoing National Science month celebration.

21/07/2026

67 minutes for Mandela Day on 18 July, spent with a few learners.

07/07/2026

30/06/2026

Our director, Prof. Rosalind Skelton shaking hands after signing the MoU with Brazilian, BRICS Astronomy visitors.

30/06/2026

Today is Asteroid Day. Several researchers at the South African Astronomical Observatory research Near Earth Objects. Have a look at some of their work and the telescopes they use. https://newsletters.saao.ac.za/newsletter-article/saving-the-world-from-asteroids/

Astronomy as an esoteric field rarely weaves a thread neat enough to connect with humanity’s daily trudges. Yet, the study of Near-Earth Asteroids is both scary and fascinating since the rotation as well as the composition of the asteroids are valuable tracers in determining the history of the for...

29/06/2026

The Department of Science,Technology and Innovation SA minister hosted a pre-launch media briefing of the inaugural National Science Month today.

The journey of science society began in 1998 with a year-long event meant to reacquaint South African citizens with science. Thereafter, the event morphed to a National Science Week in August each year. Now, with 2015 Science Engagement Strategy and its focus on a society that doesn’t only engage with science but has informed opinions, we have a National Science Month, which will be officially launched on July 4.

Listen to the pre-launch speech.

26/06/2026

The whole group from UKhanyo Foundation and the team from BRICS Astronomy South African Astronomical Observatory, South African Radio Astronomy Observatory - SARAO, African Astronomical Society, SKA Observatory, IAU Office of Astronomy for Development had a fun youth celebration. Their founder Ms Sandiswa Gwele and the teachers expressed immense gratitude to all the organisations involved for making time to engage and motivate the youth. There were some spot prizes won during the last session based on the visit to different locations within and the exhibitions from different organisations.