BRICS MAGAZINE THIRD EDITION

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS

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BRICS ASTRONOMY WORKING GROUP MEETING 2024

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IAU GRANTS TO SUPPORT 13 ASTRONOMY-FOR-DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

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BRICS ASTRONOMY AT THE 32ND IAU GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN CAPE TOWN

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OUTREACH PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES

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BRICS NATIONS MAKING STRIDES

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POLITICS OF ASTRONOMY

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SA LAUNCHES ASTROTOURISM STRATEGY

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ASTROTOURISM SITES IN BRICS COUNTRIES

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TRAILBLAZERS

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SAPTARISI

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GEODESY IN AFRICA

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FACTS

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INDIGENOUS ASTRONOMY: ETHIOPIA

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QUIZ

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CAREERS IN ASTRONOMY

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ED’S NOTE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR It’s a privilege to introduce the third edition of BRICS Astronomy, centered on the theme of “Astronomy in BRICS Countries.” This edition shines a spotlight on the remarkable progress and diverse contributions to astronomy across the BRICS nations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you, our readers.

A key highlight of this issue is the 10th BRICS Astronomy Working Group (BAWG) Workshop, hosted in Russia by Kazan Federal University in September 2024. This milestone event not only marked a decade of collaboration but also welcomed the new BRICS members for the first time, both in-person and online. We’ve covered the BAWG Workshop extensively in this edition, so you can dive in and catch up on the exciting developments and discussions.

We’re thrilled to share that Cape Town, South Africa made history by being the first city in Africa to host the International Astronomical Union General Assembly (IAU-GA). Be sure to read up on this landmark event on page 14, as it marks a significant moment for African astronomy and science on the global stage.

In this issue, we’re also shining a spotlight on two trailblazers, Dr Nadeem Oozeer and Dr Simon Perkins, who have more than 20 years of experience in radio astronomy. Be sure to read this feature on page 28.

1 Bridgeway, Century City, Cape Town, South Africa, 7441 Tel: +27 21 830 5240 | Email: info@bricsmag.com www.bricsmag.com

PUBLISHER Madambi Rambuda EDITOR Zakiyah Ebrahim GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ilze Garnett-Bennett SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Cailyn Scheepers CONTRIBUTORS Lillian Assefa, Getinet Feleke Ayane, Zakiyah Ebrahim, Santosh Joshi, Duduzile Kubheka, Moleboge Lekoloane, Phenyo Mathapo, Mutshidzi Mclloyd Nelwamondo, Cailyn Scheepers, Siphokazi Vuso, Kumar Pranshu, Kuntal Misra, Jean Surdej and Paul Hickson.

If you dream of entering the field of astronomy, flip over to page 42 where we’ll guide you through the essential skills and exciting opportunities that could kickstart your journey into the cosmos.

The 11th meeting of the BRICS Astronomy Working Group is set to take place in October 2025 and will bring together the astronomy community, including researchers, education and development practitioners, and policymakers. Visit www.bricsastronomy.org for more information.

Creating a magazine about such an incredible, awe-inspiring subject has been a true highlight, and I’m grateful to be able to share this journey with all of you. I wish you clear skies and the very best for the rest of 2025, whether you’re a budding astronomer or simply someone who enjoys gazing at the stars. Keep looking up!

DISCLAIMER BRICS Astronomy Magazine is produced by Science Stars (Pty) Ltd, a BRICS Astronomy Working Group partner.

Zakiyah Ebrahim Editor BRICS Astronomy Magazine 6

Copyright 2025 Science Stars (Pty) Ltd. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or means, electronically or mechanically without prior permission.

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

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COVER STORY

BRICS WORKING GROUP

BRICS Astronomy Working Group Meeting 2024

By Moleboge Lekoloane and Duduzile Kubheka

The 10th BRICS Astronomy Working Group (BAWG) Workshop and Meeting was hosted in a hybrid format by Kazan Federal University, supported by the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education on 9 - 13 September 2024. This meeting marked a significant milestone as the BAWG celebrated its 10th meeting and, for the first time, welcomed the new BRICS members, who joined in-person and online.

These topics were: • small bodies of the solar system as transient objects; • transients in astrophysics; • astronomical data; • pipelines for astronomical data in multichannel observations; • science platform for global data network; • astronomical instrumentation.

The theme of the meeting was the BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network (BITDN). During the first three days of the science meeting, representatives presented talks on a variety of topics in line with the sub-themes, which were:

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BRICS WORKING GROUP

The BRICS Astronomy programme aims to advance scientific research, technological development, and human capacity development among participating nations. Key activities include workshops on data handling and analysis, student programmes offering hands-on experience, software development for telescope control and data processing, and engineering capacity building for telescope construction.

These efforts aim to foster collaboration, enhance research capabilities, and cultivate a new generation of astronomers within the BRICS community. The science meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration in science but also emphasised the need for further collaboration in other aspects beyond multi-wavelength astronomy.

During the conference, participants had the opportunity to visit various sites in the beautiful city of Kazan, including a visit to the Astronomical Observatories of Kazan Federal University, which comprises two institutions: the Kazan City Astronomical Observatory and the Engelhardt Astronomical Observatory. The former was built in 1837 and is located on the university campus. The suburban Engelhardt Astronomical Observatory, which is located 30km west of Kazan City, includes Astronomical facilities for observations and residential buildings, all located within a park. The Astronomical Observatories of Kazan Federal University is a UNESCO World BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

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BRICS WORKING GROUP

Heritage site, offering valuable insights into the observatory’s rich astronomical history. Participants of the conference had the opportunity to visit both observatories and experience their history.

After the science meeting, focal points and government representatives from the different countries met for the Business Meeting. During the meeting, strategic and operational matters were discussed and representatives provided feedback on the progress in the field of Astronomy in their respective countries. One of the key discussion points was on the funding for the BITDN flagship project. The BAWG encouraged member countries to continue engaging their respective funding agencies for funding opportunities and resolved to raise the need for funding at the BRICS Senior Officials Meeting.

Another key area discussed was the proposal to establish a BRICS Astronomy open-access and free-to-publish journal.

Discussions around this are still ongoing. It was also recommended that the BAWG explore connections with other Working Groups that share common objectives. This approach would improve the effectiveness of BRICS STI (Science, Technology and Innovation), fostering better communication among the groups, strengthening collaboration, and advancing shared goals. The meeting concluded with the drafting of the 10

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BRICS WORKING GROUP

Resolutions which the partner countries will now focus on for the next year.

The future of the BAWG appears bright and full of promise, especially with the addition of new members who will bring valuable contributions to the partnership. We extend our gratitude to the Russian Federation and Kazan University for their warm hospitality and commitment to organising this year’s meeting.

To read more about the flagship project and BRICS Astronomy, visit www.bricsastronomy.org

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13 NEW ASTRONOMY PROJECTS

IAU GRANTS TO SUPPORT 13 NEW ASTRONOMY-FOR-DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN 2025

By IAU-Office of Astronomy for Development The International Astronomical Union’s (IAU) Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is pleased to announce the results of its latest call for proposals: 11 new projects around the world will receive a total of €69 500 (R1.34 million) in 2025, and two multi-year projects will receive €21 000 (R406 100) for their second and third year of funding.

The new projects will target countries across multiple continents, including BRICS nations. The projects include: • mobile observatory STEM programmes in Malaysia and India; • a multi-national collaborative radio astronomy project connecting students in China, Pakistan and Greece; • personal and professional skills development projects for vulnerable children in Mexico and South Africa; • a cultural astronomy experience for Aboriginal youth in Australia; • astrotourism and other revenue-generating projects in Saint Lucia, Mexico and India; • skills development workshops in Iran, • and more.

Many of the new projects will focus on the OAD’s three flagship areas: astrotourism for socioeconomic development; astronomy to improve mental health; and the application of astronomy knowledge and skills for sustainable development.

List of projects funded, in alphabetical order: • Astro-STEM Workshop, Kenya • A ustralia’s Cultural Night Sky: Culture, Creativity and Community at Lake Ballard, Western Australia, Australia • C loser to the sky: co-creating astronomical knowledge in the favela complex of Cantagalo Pavão Pavãozinho (PPG) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • CSTERC Women AstroPreneurs’ Collective, India • E l Universo para ti – Astronomía para la resiliencia (The Universe for you – Astronomy for resilience), Mexico • E limisha Msichana Elimisha Jamii na Astronomia (Educate a Girl Educate the entire Community with Astronomy), Kenya and Uganda.

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• L ook Up now and reconnect (LuNaR): Astrotourism for Economic, Cultural and Environmental development in Coahuila & Campeche, Mexico • L UNAA Journeys Stargazing Training Programme, Saint Lucia • R adio Astronomy for Development, Intercultural Innovation, and Outreach: A modern `Silk Road’ via radio astronomy education, China, Pakistan, Greece • R eviving and Integrating Solar Energy in the Zagros region, Iran • R ite of Passage: Connection through Astronomy, South Africa • S parking STEM Interest through Mobile Observatory in Malaysia, Malaysia • S tarlight Pathways: Bringing Astronomy to Every Child, India • A nga Explorers for Development (funded by Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy Project (DARA) through the UK’s Science and Technologies Facilities Council), Kenya • A stroGuides: Transforming Tours with Astrotourism (funded by Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy Project (DARA) through the UK’s Science and Technologies Facilities Council), Botswana Recommended proposals seeking funding Every year, the OAD receives numerous, good quality proposals that were approved by the reviewers but could not be funded.

They compile these projects into a ‘Recommended List’, which is shared on their website for the benefit of potential funders.

The 2025 Recommended List has 33 projects. Some of them include projects from BRICS countries. For more information on the projects, or to support or collaborate with one or more of the projects, visit the OAD website at www.astro4dev.org – the OAD welcomes funding partners who could support those projects that we are unable to fund.

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

BRICS ASTRONOMY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

BRICS ASTRONOMY AT THE 32ND IAU GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN CAPE TOWN

By Lillian Assefa

The BRICS Astronomy team had the privilege of working at the exhibition stand in 2024, where we engaged with attendees, facilitated meaningful conversations, and built valuable relationships.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has been fostering global collaboration in the field of astronomy since its establishment in 1919. This influential organisation holds its General Assembly every three years, and 2024 marked its 32nd gathering. The XXXII IAU General Assembly was held in Cape Town, South Africa, making history as the first time the event took place in Africa. Over 2 000 participants from more than 100 countries gathered in this vibrant BRICS city to celebrate the IAU’s achievements and strengthen collaborations within the astronomical community.

Hosting the IAU General Assembly in Africa is a monumental milestone for the continent, underscoring Africa’s growing influence in the global scientific landscape. The event, which

took place from 6 to 15 August, featured a mix of in-person and online sessions, fostering broad international participation.

Attendees engaged in poster presentations, scientific talks, exhibition stands, and numerous other activities designed to encourage knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

BRICS Astronomy was proud to be one of the few organisations representing the BRICS astronomy community at the event.

Our exhibition stand provided a platform to share stories from our magazine and highlight the contributions of BRICS countries to global astronomy. We engaged with scientists, delegates, students, and many other visitors, creating valuable connections that will help shape the future of astronomical collaboration.

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BRICS ASTRONOMY GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Our team had the privilege of working at the exhibition stand, where we engaged with attendees, facilitated meaningful conversations, and built valuable relationships. These interactions were instrumental in promoting the objectives of BRICS Astronomy and expanding our network of global partners and collaborators.

In addition to our participation at the event, BRICS Astronomy was honoured to be featured on the BRICS Africa Channel, a media platform that provides news, analysis, and programming from the perspective of the BRICS nations and the African continent. During the interview, we discussed the historical significance of the event, our magazine’s initiatives, and our vision for advancing BRICS collaboration in astronomy. This exposure provided an excellent opportunity to highlight the essential role that BRICS Astronomy plays in fostering international partnerships and promoting the exchange of knowledge and resources.

One of the key highlights of the event was a side meeting organised for BRICS colleagues, aimed at facilitating deeper engagement among member countries. This meeting offered a space to explore other potential collaborative projects within the BRICS community. These discussions were invaluable in identifying new areas of cooperation and ensuring that future initiatives are aligned with the collective goals of BRICS countries in the field of astronomy.

Attending the IAU General Assembly in South Africa opened significant doors for BRICS Astronomy, creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth. As the first African country to host the event, this historic occasion sets a promising foundation for further advancements in astronomical research and international cooperation.

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By showcasing the strength and potential of the BRICS+ (original 5 countries with the addition of Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, UAE and Indonesia partnership). This event reinforces the importance of continued collaboration among global astronomy communities to address shared challenges, promote innovation, and enhance scientific discovery.

Looking ahead, the momentum generated by the IAU General Assembly will help shape the future trajectory of BRICS Astronomy. We are committed to building on this success, strengthening partnerships, and contributing to the global advancement of astronomy. The event not only showcased the growing prominence of Africa in the global scientific arena but also demonstrated the potential for BRICS countries to play a leading role in shaping the future of astronomical research.

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

BRICS ASTRONOMY OUTREACH PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES

BRICS Astronomy: Advancing Collaboration and Open Science

By Phenyo Mathapo

The BRICS Astronomy Working Group (BAWG) The BRICS Astronomy Working Group (BAWG) was established in 2015. The BAWG programme aims to connect many of the observing facilities within BRICS countries in order to advance collectively the time domain and survey astronomy, particularly in the era of Big Data. This is the motivation for the BRICS flagship programme entitled BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network.

This Group is composed of government officials and appointed representatives who are supported by the focal points on astronomy and experts from the BRICS nations. It enables members of the BRICS countries to explore mechanisms that could promote BRICS cooperation in astronomy, as well as discussions of policy issues and matters that are related to development, practice and research in astronomy. This has been done through a series of workshops that serve as a platform which have been developed by the BAWG to engage on such matters. The goals that the BAWG have presented align with the objectives and principles of the Open Universe initiative.

It aims to stimulate a drastic increase in the usability and availability of space science data, the empowerment of global educational services and extend the potential of scientific discovery to new participants worldwide. The initiative wants space science data to be free of bureaucratic or administrative barriers, easily discoverable, openly available and usable by professional space scientists, citizen scientists and ordinary scientists who are interested in the wonders of space science.

COPUOS also presents social and economic benefits which have the potential to directly impact the BRICS countries, such as promoting scientific thinking and culture in society, improving the quality of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education, and facilitating cross-disciplinary, multi-experiment and data-intensive research, among others.

It can also contribute to containing costs associated with large international cooperative enterprises like the BRICS Astronomy Programme on Transients, thus making them effective and sustainable. The development of a network of astronomical research among the BRICS nations is at the centre of the BAWG activities and through Open Universe, the necessary data infrastructure that enables BRICS Astronomy science and development programmes can be partly provided.

The Open Universe initiative For more information, visit www.bricsastronomy.org Open Universe is an initiative proposed to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

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NEWS AND TRENDS

BRICS NATIONS MAKING STRIDES Compiled by Zakiyah Ebrahim

BRICS nations are making significant strides in astronomy.

Here is a summary of the latest developments.

The BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – along with their new members (Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE), are emerging economies working to amplify their influence on the global stage. Astronomy is one of the fields where BRICS nations are making significant strides, showcasing their potential in cutting-edge science and collaboration.

BRAZIL

From groundbreaking discoveries to international competitions and pioneering space projects, we look at the latest astronomical developments across BRICS countries.

Additionally, student Heitor Borim Szabo contributed to the multinational team that triumphed in the Group Competition.

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On the competition front, Brazil excelled at the 2024 International Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (17th IOAA), held in Brazil from 17 to 27 August 2024 and organised by the Observatório Nacional (ON/MCTI). Brazilian students secured five medals, including two silver and three bronze.

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

NEWS AND TRENDS RUSSIA The 10th meeting of the BRICS Astronomy Working Group took place in Kazan on 12 to 13 September 2024. It was hosted by Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University (KFU) and the Engelhardt Astronomical Observatory, with support from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

As reported by BRICS Russia 2024, participants shared updates on astronomical infrastructure within their countries, discussed active observatories, and space projects undertaken by BRICS nations.

Key discussions centered on advancing the flagship ‘BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Big Data Network’ project, which started in 2019. The project aims to establish a specialised astronomical and intelligent data network. This network will integrate existing and under-construction telescopes, along with capabilities from various space-based and groundbased multi-wavelength facilities in BRICS member states.

INDIA According to Trinity Mirror, a partner of TV BRICS, India’s Chandrayaan-2 mission has revealed notable impacts of Earth’s geomagnetic tail on the Moon’s ionosphere – findings that challenge earlier views on how plasma behaves in the lunar environment.

Trinity Mirror reports that India’s Chandrayaan-2 mission has detected unusually high electron densities in the Moon’s ionosphere when it enters Earth’s geomagnetic tail. The findings suggest that ancient lunar magnetic fields may trap

plasma, creating localised density spikes nearly 100 times greater than normal. Researchers note that this could affect future lunar missions by impacting communications, surface charging, and dust behaviour.

CHINA China, using its Einstein Probe (EP) astronomical satellite, has detected a gamma-ray burst designated as EP240315a, originating approximately 12.5 billion light years away, according to the Xinhua News Agency on 25 January 2025.

The EP is an X-ray satellite launched in February 2024.

This marks the first time soft X-ray signals from an early universe explosion have been detected, paving the way for new research into the young cosmos.

The relevant research paper was published in the international academic journal Nature Astronomy.

The universe hosts many violent explosive events that occur randomly and vanish quickly, resembling brief cosmic “fireworks.” Observing these phenomena is highly significant for advancing research into frontier topics such as black holes, gravitational waves, and cosmic evolution, the report noted.

The Global Times reported that the brightness of EP240315a fluctuated rapidly and gradually disappeared after 17 minutes.

Following this, multiple astronomical telescopes around the world observed the event in succession. The research findings indicate that EP240315a originated in the distant early universe when it was just 10 percent of its current age, with its signal taking 12.5 billion years to reach Earth, according to the Xinhua report.

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NEWS AND TRENDS SOUTH AFRICA A team of scientists from the University of Cape Town (UCT), in collaboration with South Africa’s MeerKAT radio telescope, has discovered a giant radio galaxy (GRG) that promises to expand astronomers’ understanding of the universe’s largest structures.

increased in recent years, thanks to cutting-edge technology like MeerKAT. The research study was published in a research paper in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, and features contributions from researchers and scientists globally.

A significant find

Supplied

“The number of GRG discoveries has absolutely exploded in the past five years thanks to powerful new telescopes like MeerKAT. Research into GRG is developing rapidly and it’s becoming hard to keep up. It’s incredibly exciting,” said Kathleen Charlton, a UCT master’s student and co-author of the study.

The newly discovered giant radio galaxy ‘Inkathazo’. The glowing plasma jets, as seen by the MeerKAT telescope, are shown in red and yellow. The starlight from other surrounding galaxies can be seen in the background.

Named Inkathazo, which means trouble in isiZulu and isiXhosa, GRGs like this are extraordinary cosmic phenomena.

According to UCT News, these galaxies emit vast plasma jets stretching millions of light-years across intergalactic space, powered by supermassive black holes at their centres.

Though previously considered rare, the discovery of GRGs has

The discovery is particularly significant because Inkathazo’s plasma jets extend 3.3 million light-years, more than 32 times the size of the Milky Way. The name Inkathazo was chosen because the galaxy’s features have posed challenges for researchers trying to understand its unique physics, said Charlton. Thanks to MeerKAT’s advanced capabilities, highresolution spectral age maps were created to track the age of the plasma jets across different regions.

MeerKAT, operated by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), has proven to be a revolutionary tool for exploring the southern sky. As a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), it offers unmatched sensitivity and resolution, making it an essential tool for uncovering cosmic mysteries like Inkathazo.

Source: www.news.uct.ac.za

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BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

SARAO

POLITICS OF ASTRONOMY

POLITICS OF ASTRONOMY South Africa’s Starry Skies and the Global Stage Astronomy, the study of celestial objects, often evokes a sense of wonder and detachment from earthly concerns.

Yet even this scientific field is not immune to the influence of politics, as national governmental and international policies relatively shape astronomical research, funding, and collaboration, either positively or negatively. Let’s explore this dynamic through the lens of South Africa, a nation with a rich astronomical heritage and ambitious future plans.

A History of Starlight and Apartheid: South Africa boasts some of the world’s darkest skies - a crucial advantage for optical and infrared ground-based observations. However, during apartheid, these favourable conditions weren’t fully utilised. International sanctions and limited government investment hampered astronomical research, light pollution from growing cities further threatened observing sites. In addition, due to segregation,

up until 1994, there were only a handful of black Astronomers in the country and to this date, despite government efforts to promote transformation, the inequalities in the number of white vs people of colour and gender of Astronomers still exist.

Post-Apartheid Policy and the Rise of Collaboration: The dawn of democracy ushered in a new era for South African astronomy. The government recognised its potential and actively identified Astronomy as a thematic area of focus but compiled relevant legislation and fostered international collaborations to drive its growth. This led to the construction of the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere, hosted by the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and South Africa’s pivotal role in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) - a global radio telescope project aiming to answer fundamental questions about the universe hosted by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) in the Karoo.

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POLITICS OF ASTRONOMY

Policy plays a crucial role in directing resources towards national research priorities. South Africa’s Astronomy Geographic Advantage Act (AGAA) exemplifies this by protecting radio-quiet zones from interference, and ensuring optical observatories are not affected by light pollution; the National Decadal Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation (2022-2031) emphasises leveraging astronomy as a tool for human capacity development and socioeconomic growth, particularly by integrating rural communities into the country’s scientific advancements. It also protects light pollution in the vicinity of SAAO’s optical observatory near Sutherland.

Additionally, the 2015 Multiwavelength Astronomy Strategy, greatly assisted in driving the development of astronomy to what it is today and emphasised the importance of attracting global research partnerships and investments. By fostering these partnerships, the strategy positions South Africa as an emerging leader in global astronomical research while also supporting local innovation and technological advancements​.

These strategies aim to align national goals of socioeconomic development by leveraging astronomy as both a scientific and economic asset.

In terms of funding, these strategies call for the strategic allocation of resources to ensure that key astronomical infrastructure and operations thereof, are maintained at world-class standards, ensuring continued international collaboration and scientific leadership. The emphasis on spin-offs from astronomical research, such as big data analytics and instrumentation development, underlines the strategy’s role in securing sustained funding by demonstrating the broader economic and societal benefits of investing in astronomy through job creation and human capacity development initiatives.

Challenges and Opportunities in a Globalized World: Despite these positive developments, challenges persist.

Securing adequate funding remains a constant hurdle, as astronomical research often competes with other national priorities. Additionally, the complex bureaucracy of both national and international collaborations can impede progress.

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SARAO

Policy and Funding: Balancing National Interests with Global Collaboration:

BRICS Astronomy: A Platform for Collaboration: South Africa’s engagement with the BRICS Astronomy Working Group (BAWG) offers exciting opportunities. This platform fosters collaboration in astronomy research, technology development, and even open-access publishing initiatives aimed at reducing the financial barriers to scientific knowledge. South Africa is the secretariat for this platform and assists in coordinating activities among these BRICS plus nations.

Astronomy in South Africa serves as a compelling illustration of the intricate relationship between politics and scientific progress. National policies, international collaborations, and funding structures shape research agendas, resource allocation, and ultimately, the discoveries made. As South Africa continues to navigate the political landscape of national, continental and global astronomy, its success will hinge on its ability to leverage collaborations, secure funding, and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of scientific policy.

By doing so, South Africa can ensure its place at the forefront of astronomical exploration, turning its starry skies into a launchpad for unravelling the mysteries of the universe.

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

DSTI Communications

SOUTH AFRICA LAUNCHES AN ASTROTOURISM STRATEGY

South Africa launches first-ever

ASTROTOURISM STRATEGY Compiled by Siphokazi Vuso

South Africa has launched its first national astrotourism strategy, blending science and tourism to boost rural development and inspire future astronomers.

South Africa has taken a groundbreaking step in astrotourism with the launch of its first national strategy, according to the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA). Unveiled in Carnarvon, Northern Cape, on World Tourism Day (27 September 2024), the initiative establishes the country as a key player in Africa’s expanding astrotourism industry. The launch was led by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande and Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.

development, the efficient operation of astronomy-related tourism, and community transformation.

“We at the Department of Tourism, alongside the Department of Science and Innovation, are proud to launch the national astrotourism strategy – the first of its kind in Africa. This strategy echoes the World Tourism Day theme, ‘Tourism and Peace’ where we aim to strengthen our legacy of mutual understanding between the significance of astronomy and indigenous celestial narratives.”

In her opening speech, de Lille emphasised that the astrotourism strategy will prioritise infrastructure

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

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SOUTH AFRICA LAUNCHES AN ASTROTOURISM STRATEGY De Lille added that collaboration and partnerships were important to take this work forward. “We are thankful for the national, provincial and local government working together as well as the private sector to ensure sustainable growth and local community development,” she added.

New opportunities for rural tourism De Lille also said that the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope served as a catalyst for the development of the Karoo region, creating new opportunities for rural tourism. By attracting researchers, scientists, and tourists from around the globe, the SKA will spearhead a wealth of new opportunities for rural tourism and help foster South Africa’s economy through job creation.

“I had the privilege to visit the Square Kilometre Array telescope … It was truly remarkable to see how science is making a remarkable leap towards the future, and all on African soil,” expressed de Lille.

“Astronomy has not only enhanced our understanding of big questions about cosmic origins but has also provided us with technologies which have improved the quality of life on earth.

Therefore, for the DSI, it is our wish not only to develop the vast tourist potential of this incredible heritage, but also to inspire a new generation of astronomers and allied scientists to emerge from all our communities,” he said.

Nzimande also announced that the Carnarvon SKA Visitor Centre (CSVC), which will serve as a tourism hub in the region, was underway. “We are collaborating with the Department of Tourism, the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Kareeberg Local Municipality, and SARAO (South African Radio Astronomy Observatory), with the SKA Observatory also coming on board,” he said, adding: “This is a multi-million project to construct a world-class facility here in Carnarvon that will use the science of the SKA telescope to create a tourism hub in the area, thereby combining science and tourism to boost economic development in a rural environment.”

DSTI Communications

The national astrotourism strategy was open for public comments before the implementation process was rolled out.

Speaking at the launch event, Minister Nzimande said they hoped it would inspire a new generation of astronomers.

Minister Blade Nzimande, Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) 22

Minister Patricia De Lille Department of Tourism (DOT)

BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

ASTRONOMY SECTOR IN BRICS COUNTRIES

Exploring Astronomy Sites Across the BRICS Nations From groundbreaking research initiatives to world-class observatories and space agencies, the BRICS nations provide countless places of interest for stargazers and space enthusiasts.

By Siphokazi Vuso

Astronomy has long been a field that captivates human imagination, offering answers to some of the universe’s most profound questions. The BRICS countries offer a vibrant mix of scientific exploration, technological innovation, and global collaboration. These nations are not just contributors but pioneers in shaping the future of humanity’s understanding of the cosmos through space exploration, astrophysics, research and astronomy education.

Brazil has strong research programmes in astrophysics and planetary science, while Russia has a rich history in space

exploration and astronomy, with a strong focus on theoretical astrophysics. India has a thriving astronomy community, with a focus on research, education, and infrastructure development.

China has a rapidly growing astronomy programme, with a focus on research, education, and space exploration. South Africa has a growing astronomy community, with a focus on research, education, and infrastructure development.

Below, we delve into an overview of the diverse astronomy career paths available in each of the BRICS countries.

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ASTRONOMY SECTOR IN BRICS COUNTRIES Brazil

Russia

Brazil is home to the National Institute for Space Research (INPE). INPE plays a crucial role in astronomical studies and space exploration and offers opportunities to astronomers and astrophysicists. Careers in Brazil’s astronomy sector often focus on radio astronomy, satellite technology and planetary science. Institutions such as the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) and INPE employ astronomers for satellite tracking, space observation, and astrophysics research.

Russia has continued to be a powerhouse in space research and astronomy through institutions like the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Pulkovo Observatory. Russia offers opportunities in planetary science, telescope engineering, and astrophysics.

Planetariums and science museums often seek educators and outreach coordinators to engage the public in astronomy.

Brazil has 48 permanent planetariums that offer astronomy and space viewing programmes to the public. Brazil also collaborates with global institutions such as the European Southern Observatory (ESO) to enhance Brazil’s role in Astronomy.

Aspiring astronomers who seek to be scientists and want to study the origins, evolution, and characteristics of objects that can be observed in the sky beyond Earth, as well as the overall nature of the universe can pursue their studies at institutions like the University of San Paulo, which offers advanced programmes in Astrophysics.

Opportunities also exist for collaboration with global projects, such as those involving the International Space Station (ISS) or joint astronomical observatories.

Careers are available in research institutions like the Russian Academy of Sciences and its space agency, Roscosmos, which leads global missions in lunar exploration and beyond.

Russia’s astronomy sector is thriving, offering a wide range of career opportunities for those passionate about space and research. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional, Russia’s institutions and organisations are leading the charge in astronomy and space exploration.

The Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Sternberg Astronomical Institute are just two of the many observatories and research centres offering research opportunities and internships.

The job market for astronomers and space professionals in Brazil is growing, driven by government investments in space exploration and research.

Rubens de Azevedo Planetarium in Brazil.

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ASTRONOMY SECTOR IN BRICS COUNTRIES

SKAO WEBSITE

An SKA-Mid prototype dish on site in South Africa.

India Home to the renowned Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), India offers exciting opportunities in space technology, astrophysics, and radio astronomy at institutions such as the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).

The job market for astronomers and space professionals in India is competitive, but there are opportunities for those with advanced degrees and relevant skills.

China

Careers in India’s astronomy sector span astrophysics, space science, data analysis, and satellite technology.

Chinese institutions like the National Astronomical Observatories and various universities have robust programmes in astronomy and astrophysics.

Aspiring astronomers can pursue specialised programmes at institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA). Science communication and education roles are available in institutions that promote astronomy to the public.

China is a powerhouse in space science, with careers in research, space engineering, and data analysis through its massive facilities like the Five-Hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) telescope and space agency CNSA (China National Space Administration).

India has a rich history in astronomy, and the field continues to grow and evolve. With a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, Indian astronomers have made significant contributions to the global astronomy community.

Projects in lunar exploration and Mars missions provide cutting-edge opportunities. China actively collaborates on international scientific projects, allowing astronomers to work on a global scale. China’s space programme is rapidly expanding, with plans for lunar and Mars exploration, and a growing demand for skilled professionals.

There are various career paths available in astronomy in India, including research, academia, industry, and government. Indian astronomers can work in research institutions, universities, space agencies, and private companies.

To pursue a career in astronomy, one typically needs a strong educational background in physics, mathematics, or computer science. A master’s or PhD degree in astronomy or a related field is often required for advanced research and academic positions.

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ASTRONOMY SECTOR IN BRICS COUNTRIES South Africa As the home of the largest optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern African Large Telescope, South Africa is a leader in optical astronomy.

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and other institutions are the key players in global astronomy research.

Careers in cosmology, data science, and software engineering are particularly prominent, attracting global talent to its world-class facilities.

The BRICS countries offer diverse and growing opportunities in the field of astronomy, driven by advancements in technology and need for international collaboration. These collaborations create opportunities for students and professionals to work on international projects, share knowledge, and develop solutions to common challenges in astronomy and space science. Aspiring astronomers across BRICS countries can find rewarding careers across various sectors, and contribute to our understanding of the universe.

Astronomy in BRICS a growing field

Careers in astronomy in South Africa offer a range of opportunities, from research and academia to industry and government. Astronomers in South Africa can work on cuttingedge projects, collaborate with international teams, and contribute to our understanding of the universe.

BRICS countries are increasingly investing in astronomy, with a focus on research, education, and infrastructure development.

These countries are actively involved in various areas of astronomy research, including astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, and astrobiology.

Universities such as the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Stellenbosch University (SU) have strong astronomy programmes and research initiatives. Organisations like the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and science centres look for professionals to promote astronomy and science education.

The future outlook for astronomy in BRICS countries is promising, with increased investment expected to drive growth in the sector. Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, will create new opportunities for astronomy research and education.

International collaboration on astronomy projects will continue to grow, promoting global cooperation and knowledge sharing.

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TRAILBLAZERS

Trailblazers: Dr Nadeem Oozeer and Dr Simon Perkins SARAO team The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is synonymous with innovation and scientific discoveries and has become one the world’s foremost authorities on groundbreaking science endeavors.

Of course none of this would be possible without passionate people who are committed to the industry and strive to achieve results benefiting the science and technology sector.

Two of these stalwarts are Dr Nadeem Oozeer, Data Scientist, and Dr Simon Perkins, Senior Scientific Software Developer at SARAO. Together Oozeer and Perkins have more than 20 years of experience in radio astronomy.

Dr Oozeer, who was a Postdoctoral Fellow at SKA Africa (now known as SARAO) between 2009 and 2011, before taking up a permanent position in the organisation in 2011, has been working for years to develop and perfect state-of-the-art algorithms to analyse data that is produced by the MeerKAT and other radio telescopes around the world as part of the Radio Astronomy Research group (RARG). “I develop algorithms to understand the impact of Radio Frequency Interference on the MeerKAT radio telescope. My research areas also include radio galaxies, galaxy clusters, Machine Learning and Artificial intelligence. I am also involved in Human Capacity Development,” says Oozeer. As part of his work, Oozeer is regularly invited to present at conferences and symposia and is often involved in outreach work with school learners and tertiary students, creating awareness and advancing the public understanding of science.

His latest involvement is in the successful development of the Transient Array Radio Telescope (TART), which is a new low-cost astronomy interferometry instrument poised to be utilised as a training and research telescope on the African continent. The TART telescope was unveiled during a realtime launch-and-workshop event earlier this year.

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“Using the TART, we teach and train future generations in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

On top of providing a unique professional experiment to track GPS satellites, the TART makes radio astronomy accessible to learners without the fear of breaking expensive equipment,” says Oozeer.

Dr Perkins plies his trade as a Senior Scientific Software Developer in the Radio Astronomy Research Group (RARG) within the Science Division at SARAO. RARG performs general Radio Astronomy research which includes analysis of observations, and members have been involved in the commissioning of MeerKAT. A special component of research is the development of new techniques and technologies.

“Techniques and technologies are an important and challenging part of radio astronomy research for two important reasons: we are in an era where new instruments of high sensitivity and large data volumes are being built, for example MeerKAT, SKA, DSA2000, ngVLA, but the software required to process this data hasn’t been developed. The second reason is that as a community we commonly use older algorithms that we know and trust, but the sensitivity of new instruments requires new algorithms to fully exploit the science produced by them. RARG does important work in the above two areas,” says Perkins.

Perkins, who has been at SARAO since 2016, completed a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Cape Town before working on an SKA-related postdoctoral fellowship doing GPU-accelerated Forward-Modelling of Radio Interferometer visibilities.

With experience in high performance implementations of algorithms and developing software transitioning from older to newer formats, Perkins has seen the progression in

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www.aims.ac.za/SKA South Africa

TRAILBLAZERS

Dr Nadeem Oozeer radio astronomy with regards to fitting different parts of the pipeline for an instrument, to developing an overall strategy for research software where algorithm developers, data scientists and astronomers could express their ideas using an open-source PyData software stack, on big data produced by newer instruments.

“This involved identifying software technologies that could be used with ease by the above three types of individuals and promoting their use, as well as interacting with the opensource developers to support our use-cases,” says Perkins.

An important part of his work is to mentor other members of the group in how to use these technologies, as well as setting standards for how the group developed software.

“Where necessary, I write software that encapsulates more complex algorithms and parts of the pipeline into more easily usable components for use by others.”

Perkins’ team’s radio astronomy applications have had widespread success, and he has worked on configuring and setting up cloud infrastructure on AWS, administering an Elastic Kubernetes Cluster and providing a platform on which to operate and verify them. “I regularly interact with

other researchers and groups within the community, such as the EU Horizon’s RadioBlocks project and the NRAO/SKAO Measurement Set v4 working committee,” he elaborates.

With regard to the new TART telescope, Perkins was involved in the creation of the Africanus software stack which will ultimately be outlined in a paper series. “One of the important aspects of this software is that it was designed for distributed computing from the ground up, meaning that we subdivide our data into shards and solve each shard on separate computers. If we can keep subdividing our data, this means that we can use more computers to solve the problem, offering the possibility of finding solutions faster through the use of more compute. This is called horizontal scaling: an important goal to achieve in any big data regime,” he explains.

In November 2024, Perkins delivered a keynote address on the RARG team’s work on Africanus at the SuperCompCloud: 8th Symposium on Interoperability of Supercomputing and Cloud Technologies, including results on Quartical’s scaling which linearly scales up to 64 compute nodes on AWS, solving MeerKAT-sized problems in less than 20 minutes. RARG

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TRAILBLAZERS is collaborating with Breakthrough Listen researchers at Oxford to develop a fast-imaging pipeline using the Africanus software suite to search through Petabytes of MeerKAT Archival Data for Fast Radio Bursts and Technosignatures.

LinkedIn

NRAO/SKAO’s Measurement Set v4 specification which will make writing distributed applications easier and more convenient: “I’m working on programmes that will present legacy data to the application developer in the newer spec.

Hopefully this will be useful to the broader radio astronomy community as we transition from older to newer formats,” Perkins concludes.

Dr Simon Perkins

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STUDIES OF TIME DOMAIN

BRICS Nations Unite for Space Science and Discovery

By Santosh Joshi

The Search and Follow-Up Studies of Time-Domain Astronomical Sources (SAPTARISI) is an ambitious project led by the BRICS nations. Named after the seven stars, representing seven Rishis, in ancient Indian astronomy, SAPTARISI brings together the latest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), advanced telescopes, and sky surveys to discover more about our universe.

The principal investigators of the SAPTARISI project are Santosh Joshi (ARIES, Nainital) (Coordinator), from India; Oleg Malkov (INASAN, Moscow), from Russia; and Kefeng Tan (NAOC, Beijing), from China.

Why SAPTARISI Matters The ongoing BRICS collaboration creates a unique scientific alliance, allowing the nations to pool their resources and talent in a project that benefits all. The ongoing project has several objectives, including:

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STUDIES OF TIME DOMAIN • C reating novel machine learning and AI-based methodologies for automated searching, identification, and classification of galactic and extragalactic transients from ongoing and near-term large-scale sky surveys.

• Producing an exhaustive catalogue for indexing and fast retrieval of transients and making it available in public domain via dedicated channels for the astronomical community.

• Follow-up research on a subset of objects using the BRICS collaborators’ observing facilities for the highprecision photometry and high-resolution spectroscopy for the determination of basic astrophysical parameters, and improving our understanding on stellar structure and evolution, stellar activities, galactic and extragalactic archaeology.

• Modelling the selected sources to comprehend the observed light variations and gain insight into the involved physical processes.

• Pushing the boundaries of knowledge among collaborating institutions and personnel in the BRICS countries and applying the developed techniques to other scientific disciplines and outreach activities.

Here are the objectives and how the SAPTARISI project could make a difference: 1. Strengthen the knowledge in AI and Machine Learning: In doing so, this project will advance skills in processing huge sets of astronomical data.

2. Share Knowledge and Experience: The project encourages collaboration between BRICS scientists, allowing them to share expertise in software development. This will open doors for young talent interested in using technology to explore astronomy.

3. Unite Astronomy and Data Science: As we gather more data from the universe, astronomy and data science are becoming essential partners. The insights from each field make discoveries easier and deepen our understanding of space.

4.

Inspire the Next Generation: Educating and involving university students to convert data to knowledge and gaining scientific wisdom means they will be able to help keep scientific activities advancing into the future.

The success of this international programme will be measured by the number of publications in well-known scientific journals, the dissertations of PhD and Master’s students, the usefulness of the created catalogues, and the advancements of techniques for database management, signal processing, automated detection, identification, reduction, and statistical inference.

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A collaborative foundation This proposal creates a lasting partnership between all participating institutions in areas like advanced technology, observational methods, data collection, analysis, and data management. It will also enable an important exchange of knowledge and skills among the researchers. The main goal is to create a shared training ground for students at all levels, engaging them actively in every part of the collaboration.

Data management, digital signal processing, automated image reduction, and statistical data analysis will serve as leading tools for the astronomy community.

Below is the current project status: 1. Training in AI and Machine Learning for Astronomy A PhD student, Mr Surath C. Ghosh from India, is being trained in the applications of machine learning and AI for tasks such as the automated classification of variable stars, time-resolved photometry and high-resolution spectroscopy.

Presently, we are compiling a catalogue of about a million of A-F type stars for the automated classification of variability.

2. Modelling Chemically Peculiar Star HD118660 The modelling of the chemically peculiar star HD118660 has been completed, with results published by Sarkar et al.

(2024) in a paper titled, “Asteroseismology of the mild Am • Sct star HD 118660: TESS photometry and modeling” (MNRAS, DOI:10.1093/mnras/stae2258). A major finding is that the presence of high radial modes are not expected for stars with the effective temperature located near the red edge of the instability strip.

3. Discovery of two giant planets Two giant planets orbiting the red-giant-branch star HD112570 and the red-clump star HD154391 were discovered by Chinese investigators based on the radialvelocity measurements. One of the planets, HD154391b, has one of the longest orbital periods among those ever discovered orbiting evolved stars, which may provide a valuable case in our understanding of planetary formation at wider orbits. The results have been published in The Astronomical Journal (2024, 167, 59).

4. Analysis of Mira Variables A sample of 335 Mira variables was extracted from LAMOST (the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic

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STUDIES OF TIME DOMAIN Telescope) DR9 by Chinese investigators. For these variables, oxygen-rich stars are distinguished from carbon-rich stars through the identification of carbon molecular bands present in the optical spectra. Multiple attributes, such as the link between line strength and bolometric luminosity, and the connection between atmospheric parameters and their periods are investigated for the oxygen-rich stars.

The correlation between effective temperature and the period is also investigated. This work has been accepted for publication in ApJS. 5. Study of Cataclysmic Variables (CVs) Chinese investigators found 573 spectra for 368 cataclysmic variables (CVs) from LAMOST DR11. Some of these CVs show interesting properties and are worth follow-up observations.

Time-series spectroscopic observations were performed for one of the objects, LAMOST J214242, which is brighter than 12 mag. Fifteen low-resolution spectra with a single exposure time of 350s were obtained using a two-metre telescope by Indian investigators. A detailed data reduction of the spectra is underway, including spectrum extraction, wavelength calibration, and radial velocity measurement.

The orbital properties of the object will be investigated using the obtained radial velocity curve.

6. PhD Completion on Stellar Studies Mrs Aleksandra S. Avdeeva, from Russia, has defended her PhD thesis. Aleksandra’s dissertation is devoted to the use of photometric and spectroscopic data from modern surveys of a significant part of the entire sky.

7. Galactic Extinction Study Russian researchers estimated the galactic extinction value for 42 areas in the northern celestial hemisphere using Gaia parallaxes and LAMOST data. Their findings align with previous estimates, revealing systematic differences in extinction maps that affect extragalactic object distances by 3-5%. The article is accepted for publication in Galaxies, 2024.

8. Classification by Luminosity

space of atmospheric and photometric parameters, using stellar evolution models, empirical atlases of stellar spectra, the ATLAS9 stellar model library, and published relations between observational and astrophysical characteristics. The article is published in Astrophysical Bulletin, Volume 79, Issue 2, pp. 298-303, 2024.

9. Photometric Classification of Stellar Objects Russian, Indian and Chinese investigators used photometric data from the WISE, 2MASS, and Pan-STARRS surveys to construct colour-based selection criteria for red dwarfs, brown dwarfs, and Mira variables. On analysing the colour indices, we developed empirical rules that separate these objects with an overall classification accuracy of approximately 91%-92%. While the differentiation between red dwarfs and both Mira variables and brown dwarfs is effective, challenges remain in distinguishing Mira variables from brown dwarfs due to overlapping colour indices. The robustness of our classification technique was validated by a bootstrap analysis, highlighting the significance of colour indices in large photometric surveys for stellar classification.

The article is accepted for publication in Variable Stars, 2024.

10. Astrosat Follow-Up Observations An observing proposal titled, “Follow-up observations of objects with significant UV excess” has been accepted for the observing time from Astrosat. The main objective of this proposal is follow-up observations of 13 sources exhibiting significant UV excess, identified by cross-matching the GALEX all-sky catalogue with optical surveys. The sample for this was selected from Karpov et al. (2021) who discovered these transient UV sources.

11. Chemical Analysis of HD 180347 An analysis of high-precision space-based photometric and high-resolution spectroscopic observations of HD 180347 was performed. The spectral type of this star and obtained atmospheric parameters such as the effective temperature, surface gravity, and projected rotational, micro turbulent, and radial velocities were determined. A detailed chemical abundance analysis derived for 25 chemical elements was conducted.

Russian and Chinese investigators explored the possibility of separation of stars of different luminosity classes in the

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BRIDGING GAPS IN GEODESY

Bridging Gaps in Geodesy: Supporting Africa’s 2.5 Billion Population by 2050 When two locations are nearby, measuring the distance and direction between them is straightforward. But things become far more complex when locations are far apart. How does a pilot navigate over vast oceans without an accurate global positioning and timing system? How do we establish the precise boundaries between countries? These questions can be answered with geodesy – the science of accurately measuring the Earth’s shape, gravity field, and rotation over time. Geodesy gives us the infrastructure and critical data for accurate positioning, navigation, and timing, forming the backbone of many essential systems in our daily lives.

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BRIDGING GAPS IN GEODESY

Closely linked to geodesy are the essential services provided by satellites and EO. Countries worldwide rely on satellite data for economic growth, infrastructure, and national defense, by offering positioning, navigation, timing, telecommunications, and Earth Observation (EO) services.

EO involves gathering data about Earth’s systems and the changes they undergo, using imaging and remote sensing technology to monitor the surface and atmosphere.

Instruments like ground sensors, buoys, drones, and especially satellites play a crucial role, with satellites scanning large areas consistently over time. This data enables experts to track environmental changes, manage natural resources, plan urban infrastructure, respond to natural disasters, support sustainable development efforts, and protect the environment.

However, for satellites to operate accurately and reliably, their positions in space, as well as Earth’s position in space, must be continuously monitored. This precise observation is made possible only by the global geodesy supply chain.

This supply chain includes all components necessary for the positioning satellites (e.g., GPS) to determine and update their own orbital information, enabling GPS/GNSS users to obtain accurate positions.Imagine a world without accurate maps, where disaster response teams are unable to navigate efficiently, or where climate scientists lack precise data to predict and mitigate the impacts of global warming. Geodesy, often known as the ‘science behind the science,’ is essential for

many aspects of modern life and is the backbone supporting the accuracy of EO and the many services it provides.

Global progress in Earth Observation Today, hundreds of EO satellites provide essential data to manage our world. The World Economic Forum (WEF) reports that over 1 000 satellites orbit the planet, with their numbers rapidly increasing in the past decade. However, while EO has advanced significantly globally, Africa is still building its capacity in this area.

Africa’s geodesy challenges and growing needs Geodetic data forms the foundation for applications like navigation, surveying, and infrastructure development, noted Albert Anoubon Momo, Founder and CEO of GeoDEV International, during 2024’s UN Science Summit Day on Geodesy. He emphasised that inaccurate or outdated geodetic data can pose huge safety risks, including navigation errors causing accidents, economic losses, and environmental impacts like pollution and habitat destruction.

By 2050, Africa’s population is expected to double to 2.5 billion people. This will place immense pressure on existing infrastructure and, according to the African Development Bank, the continent faces an infrastructure funding gap of $68–$108 billion annually. Without this, sustainable development will be unattainable, putting economic growth

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BRIDGING GAPS IN GEODESY and the future of communities across Africa at risk. Africa is currently facing several challenges, including limited geodetic infrastructure, restricted access to and outdated geodetic data, as well as funding and resource constraints. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness of geodesy as a career and less formal geodesy training options in universities. Investing in African geodetic infrastructure will not only strengthen the geodesy global supply chain but also address many local issues in Africa, explained Dr Aletha de Witt, Director: Radio Astronomy Projects, Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). South Africa in her presentation at the GGOS (the Global Geodetic Observing System) Days 2024 conference. “The global geodesy supply chain needs Africa,” added de Witt.

De Witt explained that work is underway to establish a GGOS affiliate for Africa (that will be called GGOS Africa) by the end of 2025. GGOS is a component of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) – the organisation responsible for the advancement of Geodesy and contribution to EO. Africa also has a strong need for geodetic data for climate change, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.

De Witt explained that many African countries are vulnerable to rising sea levels. For instance, in parts of Africa, large portions of the population live near the coast, yet few of these countries have climate change adaptation plans in place.

Partnerships and collaboration For de Witt, the biggest challenge is collaboration and partnerships between African countries. The only fundamental geodetic site on the entire African continent is the SARAO Hartebeesthoek site in South Africa.

In working towards GGOS Africa, de Witt added there was a need for a Pan-African institute or organisation for geodesy to coordinate their efforts, which would be GGOS Africa.

“We’ve started with South Africa because we have the only fundamental geodetic station in Africa,” but there is also a geodesy committee established in South Africa, led by the DSTI, which is in progress, she said.

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“Collaboration with key mega-projects like the SKA is essential for advancing GGOS Africa,” said de Witt. The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, which is set to become the worlds most sensitive radio telescope, is currently under construction in South Africa. Its network of outer stations will extend across eight African countries: Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Ghana.

This collaboration presents unique opportunities to integrate geodesy into Africa’s scientific landscape. By co-locating geodetic instruments, such as GPS stations and radio telescopes used for geodesy, alongside SKA infrastructure, we can significantly strengthen Africa’s geodetic network.

Integrating geodetic and astronomical infrastructure not only advances both these scientific fields but also builds a foundation for sustainable development that serves both regional and global needs.

Securing funding In addition to the above, funding and resource constraints are another hindrance. In August 2024, funding was secured through an Africa–UK Physics Partnership. The project will be used to assess the status of geodetic infrastructure and capabilities across Africa – identifying gaps, determining where more instruments are needed, and pinpointing organisations involved in geodesy. This funding would also serve as seed capital for implementing GGOS Africa.

Additionally, South Africa can leverage its BRICS membership to host critical infrastructure locally, thereby reducing the very high upfront costs typically associated with such investments. Operating and maintaining this infrastructure further creates opportunities for research, innovation, and skills development across multiple sectors and countries.

“Africa is at a critical juncture and … has immense potential to contribute to global science,” said de Witt, adding: “I believe that a GGOS Africa will bring us together in Africa and help us to address some of these issues in a coordinated way.”

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FACTS

6 FUN FACTS THAT PROVE BRICS NATIONS ARE REVOLUTIONISING ASTRONOMY

By Zakiyah Ebrahim

Explore fascinating discoveries on how the BRICS nations are shaping our understanding of the universe with cutting-edge research and technology.

pexels-Lucas Pezeta-2106759

1. South Africa currently hosts the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) – a 10m optical telescope and the largest of its kind in the Southern hemisphere at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) Sutherland site!

Southern African Large Telescope credit salt.ac.za

4. South Africa is a key member of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, an international project, which aims to build the world’s largest radio telescope to help better understand the universe.

5.

BRICS countries have been active members of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) since 1948, contributing significantly to global astronomical research and education.

pexels-Raman Deep-424054-1102257

2. China’s five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST) has been operating since 2020 and is the world’s largest single-dish radio telescope! A second phase of construction began in September 2024 (on the eighth anniversary of FAST’s completion) and will enhance its capabilities by adding 24 new moveable radio telescopes.

6. Brazil is constructing the Baryon Acoustic Oscillations from Integrated Neutral Gas Observations (BINGO) radio telescope. This 40 metre-wide telescope aims to detect and locate fast radio bursts – mysterious, intense flashes of energy that outshine entire galaxies!

3. In December 2024, a meteor travelling at approximately 3 500 mph (and about 0.5-1.2 metres) exploded over Siberia, resulting in a spectacular explosion in the night skies. The event was notable for its brightness and was captured in numerous videos.

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ETHIOPIAN INDIGENOUS ASTRONOMY

Ethiopian Indigenous Astronomy

By Getinet Feleke Ayane (Kotebe University of Education, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Space Science & Geospatial Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

Ethiopian indigenous astronomy can be connected to the fact that the country is one of the oldest nations in the world. Many extremely well-preserved human and animal fossils, such as Lucy and Ardi, have been found in the Ethiopian rift valley and suggests that the country is the Cradle of Humankind. Greek historian Herodotus, Homer’s The Iliad and The Odyssey mentioned Ethiopia. According to the Kotebe University of Education, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the world owes Ethiopia for its history, astronomy, agriculture and all the other sciences the country contributed.

In their ancient books, Ethiopians documented exoplanets or unique worlds other than the Earth, stars, the sun, the moon (phases & eclipses), zodiac, types of winds, cloud, lightening, seasons, aliens ‘Sebedeat’ with their physical structure and how and where they live. Ethiopians also named planets. For example, Mercury is ‘Atard’, Venus is ‘Zihura’, Mars is ‘Merih’, Jupiter is ‘Meshteri’, and Saturn is ‘Zuhal’. According to the Ethiopic famous book of Enoch, the moon has seven different names, while the sun has five names.

The Ethiopians have a tradition of star lores and legends.

In the distant past, the knowledge of astronomy and mathematics was abundant. Books such as Thought of Light, The Mysteries of Heaven and Earth, and The Book of Enoch are devoted to this knowledge. To keep time, there is a large body of indigenous knowledge of astronomy that can be used by the world. The Cushite race (Ethiopians), its institutions, customs, laws and ideals were the foundation upon which our modern culture was laid.

The most extensive surviving early manuscripts of the Book of Enoch, only complete extant version is an Ethiopic translation that exists in the Ethiopians Ge’ez language. For a variety of reasons, the Book of Enoch was systematically purged from the scriptures until it became a “lost book” of the Bible. Including in its canon the Ethiopian Orthodox Church provides the commentary about the book of Enoch. The book describes the motion of the Sun in terms of ‘twelve windows’ in the sky, and also uses these to describe the cycles of the moon and the winds.

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Another amazing aspect Ethiopian indigenous astronomical knowledge is due to the ROYAL FAMILY Constellations (CEPHEUS-King of Ethiopia, CASSIOPEIA-Queen of Ethiopia and ANDROMEDA-Princess of Ethiopia). This fact is known in all scientific communities in the world. In Greek mythology, it is mentioned that the great Ethiopian king, Cepheus’ fame was so great that he and his family were immortalised in the stars. The wife of King Cepheus was Queen Cassiopeia, and his daughter, Princess Andromeda. It may seem strange that legendary rulers of ancient Ethiopia should still have their names graven on our star maps.

A book on astrology attributed to Lucian states that: “The Ethiopians were the first who invented the science of stars, and gave names to the planets, not at random and without meaning, but descriptive of the qualities which they conceived them to possess; and it was from them that this art passed, still in an imperfect state, to the Egyptians.” The Ethiopian origin of astronomy is also beautifully explained

by Count Volney in a passage in his Ruins of Empires, which is one of the glories of modern literature.

Ethiopia is the only country in Africa with its own alphabet, letters, numbers and calendar. Having its own calendar also shows the far and very ancient indigenous astronomy history of the country. For example, while I write this article, the date, month and year in the Gregorian calendar is 21 November 2024. In the Ethiopian main calendar, it is November/Hidar 12/2017. In the Gregorian calendar, the year is seven years ahead and November is the eleventh month. However,

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ETHIOPIAN INDIGENOUS ASTRONOMY

Ethiopian Zodiac (source: An Ethiopian Journal)

according to the Ethiopian calendar, November (Hidar) is the third month of the year. It is a solar calendar which has 365 days divided into 12 months of 30 days, and ‘Pagumen’, the 13th month, contains five days for a normal year. But this number becomes six every leap year and seven every 600 years.

Ethiopians knew that there were 182 and a half days between the vernal and autumnal equinoxes, and they gave symbols and names for the signs of the zodiacs. They divided a 24-hour day into 60 equal parts called the ‘Kekros’, and they further divided each Kekros into 60 parts called ‘Kaliet’. Generally, the calendar has seven main cycles used to calculate dates, religious holidays, and the date in which new year starts. These seven parts of time have a one week, one month, one year, 19 year, 28 year, 76 year and 532 year cycles.

Between the Ethiopian and the Gregorian calendar, there is a difference of five to 11 days, and seven to eight years. This difference depends on the exact date of the birth of Christ.

There are also additional calendars in different cultures and tribes of Ethiopia. For example, Oromo/Borena calendar, Mursi calendar and the Sidama Lunar New Year (Fichchee) are some to mention. The Sidama calendar has 13 months in a year and each of the months is divided equally into 28 days while the 13th month has 29 days. This is because the Sidama week has only four days, hence each month has seven weeks instead of the conventional four weeks. In Oromo tradition, the living style is based on indigenous knowledge of cosmos view where they have developed the Gada system as a general governing principle of both nature and social affairs. The Borana calendar is a lunar-stellar calendrical system, relying on astronomical observations of the moon in conjunction with eight particular stars or constellations. The eight recognised stars (or star groups) used to derive the calendar with their corresponding scientific names are: Triangulum/’Bittottessa’, Pleiades/’Busan or Camsa’, Aldebarran/’Bakkalcha or Bufa’, Belletrix/’Wacabajjii’, Central Orion/’Arb gaddu’, Saiph/’Obora Gudda’, Betelgeuse/‘Baqqalcha Base Diqqo’, and Sirius/’Obora Dikkaa’.

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QUIZ

PICKING YOUR BRAIN

By Zakiyah Ebrahim

Think you know BRICS astronomy? Test your space smarts with these quick-fire questions and see how many you can get right!

1. Which BRICS nation was the first to launch a satellite into space?

6. Which BRICS nation has the National Institute for Space Research (INPE)?

2. What is the name of India’s first lunar mission?

7. Which BRICS country has the world’s largest radio telescope array, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA)?

3. What is the name of Brazil’s space agency?

4. In what year did China launch its Chang’e 4 mission to the Moon?

5. What is the name of South Africa’s space science institute?

8. Which BRICS country’s space agency is known as Roscosmos?

9. What is the name of China’s space station under construction in low Earth orbit?

10. Which BRICS country is planning to launch its own crewed space missions within the next decade?

Answers 1. Russia (formerly the Soviet Union, with the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957) 2. Chandrayaan-1 3. Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) 4. 2018

5. South African National Space Agency (SANSA) 6. Brazil 7. South Africa 8. Russia 9. Tiangong (meaning “Heavenly Palace”) 10. India

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CAREERS IN ASTRONOMY

HOW TO MAKE ASTRONOMY YOUR CAREER

By Zakiyah Ebrahim

From studying the cosmos to working in cutting-edge fields like data science and aerospace, astronomy is more than telescopes – it’s a journey of discovery!

Explore how to turn your passion for space into a career.

Astronomers explore the universe, studying planets, stars, and other celestial objects to uncover how everything works.

They tackle big questions, like how the universe began, how it’s changing, and what the future might look like. But what do you need to break into the field of astronomy?

appearance? How did the universe and galaxies come to exist, and what might its future look like? To find answers, they blend sharp logic with bold, creative thinking. After posing those questions, astronomers must combine careful logic with creative intuition to find answers.

What it takes

To become a modern astronomer, you’ll need a solid foundation in several subjects, such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science, according to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO). This usually means studying physics and maths at university, typically through

Astronomy is a challenging but rewarding field that thrives on curiosity and a passion for discovery. Astronomers ask big questions like: What gives the night sky its unique

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BRICS ASTRONOMY MAGAZINE | October 2025 | bricsastronomy.org

CAREERS IN ASTRONOMY a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in physics, astronomy, mathematics, or engineering. To get into this programme, you’ll need a Matric exemption with higher-grade physical science and mathematics, explains SAAO. It’s also a good idea to study computer science and additional maths. Other helpful subjects at university include pure and applied mathematics, computer science, statistics, and electronics.

What’s the career path of an astronomer?

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) notes that after earning a PhD, astronomers typically spend three to six years in postdoctoral positions at universities or research institutions. However, according to SAAO, training as an astronomer can lead to opportunities in various related fields, such as conducting cutting-edge research in astrophysics and space science, and developing the broad scientific skills valued in today’s knowledge-based economy. You can find employment at: • astronomical research facilities (observatories) • university departments and government research institutions like SAAO Outside of astronomy, graduates would also find work in fields like: • data science • software development • aerospace • telecommunication Some astronomy careers involve spending most of your time in a lab, while others offer the chance to travel and work in diverse environments. Popular jobs in astronomy include physicist, astrophysicist, astronomer, planetarium director, aeronautical engineer, research scientist, meteorologist, and climatologist.

Characteristics of an astronomer To enter the field of astronomy, you need to have the following, according to SAAO: • a serious interest and aptitude in physics, mathematics, and computer science • perseverance, patience, self-motivation, and the ability to handle disappointment • good computer skills • good communication skills Career tips The National Careers Service UK suggests that joining an amateur astronomy group is a great way to share your passion, make connections, and gain observation experience, all of which can help kickstart your astronomy career.

The Astronomical Society of Southern Africa (ASSA), for instance, aims to encourage astronomy in southern Africa by connecting both amateur and professional observers and sharing current knowledge and information within this community. Best of all, ASSA is open to all, and provides upto-date information for hobbyists on its website. Visit ASSA at www.assa.saao.ac.za Did you know? Astronomy is by far the oldest of the sciences.

Ancient societies without even a written language made a careful study of the motions of the sun and moon. In Africa and elsewhere, civilisations built stone temples and monuments tied to astronomical ideas. Babylonian and Greek astronomers were writing detailed mathematical descriptions of the movement of stars and planets more than 2000 years ago. Today’s astronomers explore celestial objects like planets, stars including our own sun, galaxies containing billions of stars, even larger clusters of galaxies, and the formation and behaviour of the universe itself.

- SAAO

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LIQUID MIRROR TELESCOPE

The International Liquid Mirror Telescope in the Himalayas and its AI-enabled quest to find rare cosmic explosions The 4-m International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT), situated in Devasthal in the district of Nainital, Uttarakhand (India), saw its first light in the night sky in April 2022. The project results from an international collaboration between India, Belgium, and Canada (see Figure 1). Situated in the picturesque setting of the Himalayas at an altitude of 2450m, the telescope is unique in many ways. Unlike the regular telescope, which uses glass-based mirrors to reflect light from the night sky to make pretty images, the ILMT uses mercury, a liquid at room temperature that can reflect light (see Figure 2). The choice of mercury reduced the cost of construction by nearly tenfold. The ILMT is the only operational liquid mirror telescope in the world. floated as early as 1850 by the Italian astronomer Ernesto Capocci. After that, a few attempts were made to construct a liquid mirror telescope, but they all fell short for one specific reason. The rotation of the mercury bowl couldn’t be made perfectly smooth and was hampered by small vibrations. This induced ‘jitters’ in the images, rendering them not very useful for doing astronomy. This is analogous to a situation where you try to take a picture with a shaky camera, resulting in blurred photos.

Fig 1: The International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT) in Devasthal, Nainital (India).

A generic structure of any telescope has a single or multiple curved mirrors to reflect light and a camera to record images from the reflected light. This requirement poses a challenge when using liquid mirrors, as their surface cannot be ‘curved’ when held stationary. The solution to this problem is to pour the mercury into a large bowl and rotate the bowl at a uniform speed (see Figure 3). You might have noticed that when you rotate a bowl filled with water, the surface no longer remains flat and becomes rather curved (technically, the shape is called a paraboloid). The idea is not new; in fact, the idea was 44

It was not until 1982 that an Italian-Canadian astronomer, Ermanno F. Borra, realised that technological advancements made over the preceding few decades could address a few practical challenges faced by such telescopes. Subsequent developments by Borra and his collaborators culminated in the construction of the ILMT. The bowl of the ILMT has a diameter of 4 meters and can hold up to 50 litres of mercury, weighing around 700 kilograms. This bowl sits on top of a rotary table that makes 8 full revolutions every minute. The rotation speed is precise enough to focus the light on the digital camera, which is mounted vertically above the rotating bowl. One significant advancement was the technology behind the rotary bowl, which used modern air bearings to eliminate the vibrations. This made the mirror movement smooth and, hence, the images sharper. The construction of this kind of telescope constrains the entire structure, including the rotating mirror and the camera, to be

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LIQUID MIRROR TELESCOPE

Fig 2: Image formation in a Liquid Mirror Telescope. Light from the zenith sky is focused on the CCD camera, where the image is formed.

The surface of the mercury is perpendicular to the total force at every point, which is the result of the centrifugal force due to the rotation of the bowl. This force gives the surface its paraboloid shape.

An important scientific objective of the ILMT is to detect and discover a class of astronomical phenomena known as transients. Transient is an umbrella term that refers to changes in the sky that happen over a small timescale. Examples of transients are moving asteroids, stars changing brightness over a few days, and flashes of light due to stars exploding in distant galaxies, which are also known as supernovae. A nice method to search for such transients is by effectively subtracting images of the same part of the sky captured on two different nights with a telescope like the ILMT. The result of this subtraction should only contain objects that have changed, a.k.a. transients. This technique, known as image subtraction, can be used to locate transients in the images and, correspondingly, in the sky. The ILMT captures large volumes of image data, and manually analysing

Prof. Jean Surdej, Univ. of Liege, Liege, Belgium

one stationary unit. Over the past three years, the telescope has been capturing the zenith sky over Devasthal, resulting in thousands of images of great scientific value.

Fig 3: The ILMT mirror made out of mercury in a spinning bowl, during testing at Liège in Belgium.

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LIQUID MIRROR TELESCOPE

Fig 4: Discovery of a supernova candidate AT2024fxn using the ILMT on the 5th of April 2024. The discovery was assisted by a custom-built artificial intelligence (AI) based algorithm for the ILMT. The figure shows the appearance of a new supernova candidate in the middle of a new image (left) which was absent from the older image (centre). The distant galaxy in which this event occurred can be seen in the top right-hand corner of the first two images. The image on the right is the subtracted image containing only the candidate.

all the subtracted images every night to find transients is impractical.

Fortunately, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) can come in very handy in this situation. It was realised that convolutional neural networks, CNN, are uniquely suited to deal precisely with this scenario.

Developed in the late 1980s (after several years of research preceding that), CNNs are a class of machine learning algorithms that can be used to make predictions about image data. To do that, they are first required to be trained using a similar dataset on which it should be implemented. For example, a CNN trained on thousands of images of cats and dogs can be used to correctly identify whether the animal in an image is a cat or a dog. Similarly, a CNN can also be used to identify whether the object in the ILMT image is a transient or an imposter resulting from non-ideal image subtraction.

Furthermore, the CNNs were also used to sub-classify the detected transients based on their origin (extragalactic,

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variable star, solar-system object, etc). Leveraging the power of AI, researchers were able to find thousands of transients and variables in the ILMT images, including 21 rare supernova-like extragalactic transients. Five out of the 21 were discoveries and were reported likewise to the transient name server (TNS), an organisation in charge of keeping a record of transients reported by different observatories around the world. Other telescopes also carried out detailed follow-up observations of these transients. AT2024fxn, one of the five discovered transients, is shown in Figure 4. Such a study could provide insights into the nature of these events and unlock the mechanisms driving them.

The ILMT exemplifies how incremental advancements over generations can transform an ambitious idea into a scientific success. Its cost-effective and innovative design may serve as a blueprint for future telescopes, inspiring researchers to push beyond existing ideas and drive transformative scientific and technological breakthroughs.

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