The 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union (Iau) was held in Cape Town from 2-15 August, bringing together the world’s best minds in astronomy and physics.
On 14 August at the Inaf (National Institute of Astrophysics) booth, the handovers of the event passed to Italy. The next edition will in fact be held in Rome, from 9 to 19 August 2027. 3000 astronomers from all over the world are expected. During the brief press event, Willie Benz, President of the Iau, emphasised the historical importance of the collaboration between Italy and the Iau, which began in 1919, while Roberto Ragazzoni, President of Inaf, highlighted Italy’s contribution to astronomy and the enthusiasm of hosting the event in Rome.
“We are thrilled to host the General Assembly again in Rome after more than a century since the first edition in 1922,” Ragazzoni said. “It will be a unique opportunity to show the world Italy’s contribution to astronomical research.” Italy now has more than 700 Iau members. Italy’s Ambassador to South Africa, Alberto Vecchi emphasised how crucial the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Maeci) was in organising this year’s event.
During the General Assembly in Cape Town, Iau and other partners among others brought attention to the issue of light pollution and satellite constellations at the highest political levels, including the UN. Among the new appointments was Nobel Prize winner Brian Schmidt as the new President of the Iau, who will take office after the assembly in Rome
On the evening of 14 August, Ambassador Vecchi held a reception at the residence that brought together the Italian and international astronomical community. The event was an opportunity to celebrate the long-standing relationship between Italy and the Iau and to invite everyone to attend the upcoming General Assembly in Rome. “Italy has played a crucial role in the history of modern astronomy, and we are proud to once again host this prestigious event,” said Ambassador Vecchi during his speech. Roberto Ragazzoni added: “We look forward to welcoming you to Rome in 2027, to share the latest discoveries in astronomical research and to further strengthen international collaboration.”
During the Assembly’s official closing ceremony on 15 August, outgoing Iau President Debra Elmegreen handed over the baton to Roberto Ragazzoni, marking the start of the countdown to the 2027 General Assembly in Rome.
Cape Town celebrated the success of the first Iau conference held on the African continent and the importance of international cooperation and the inclusion of Africa in the global astronomical community.
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