In light of the unprecedented impact of COVID-19, the IAU is appealing to the astronomy community, its supporters and friends for financial contributions to the IAU Appeal. Donations will help ensure astronomy remains a transformative force for society, both during the crisis and in preparation for life after COVID-19.
Exploring the wonders of the Universe is available to anyone, anywhere in the world. This allows astronomy to play a diverse role within society; from maintaining our shared sense of connectivity to offering a rare combination of skills through STEM learning and research. Since the onset of the pandemic, the IAU has worked tirelessly to ensure members and the general public are given the resources and assistance needed to adapt and utilise the many benefits astronomy brings to education, employability and global citizenship.
For example, in support of those affected by COVID-19, the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) released an extraordinary, fast-tracked call for proposals that use astronomy, in any of its aspects, to help address challenges posed by the pandemic. The IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach (OAO) has been working closely with the national committees on a range of initiatives to adapt outreach and public engagement activities. For example, Telescopes for All are using low-cost digital cameras to allow observations to continue digitally and to be safely shared with the community. While symposia have been cancelled, online meetings across IAU’s Working Groups and Committees have been initiated, allowing for the vital role astronomy plays in scientific research and academia to continue.
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A Call to Action During COVID-19 from the International Astronomical Union Offices
There is an urgent call to action during this unprecedented global pandemic, as the world struggles to contain the spread of COVID-19. We need to do whatever we can to help tackle this pandemic as well as its collateral effects on society.
There is an urgent call to action during this unprecedented global pandemic, as the world struggles to contain the spread of COVID-19. We need to do whatever we can to help tackle this pandemic as well as its collateral effects on society.
We believe the astro and broader science community has a wide range of expertise and resources which could help the current situation. Thus, we would like to enable people to actively contribute their skills (data skills, communications expertise, coding, visualization etc). To help everyone cope with the prolonged times being spent indoors, we are also gathering digital astronomy resources and fun activities you can do at home to keep you and any children at home occupied and entertained.
If you have relevant resources you wish to share or if you would like to explore the resources submitted visit
