Promotion of Science Communication through Regional Office of Astronomy for Development

Abstract

The present study is devoted to the introduction of the outreach activities of IAU South West and Central Asia Regional Office of Astronomy for Development (SWCA ROAD) Significant communications gap between scientists and society is rendered. We show how to gain new enthusiasts of the Universe by science popularization. We point out the positive outcome of the science communication such as the rejection of superstitious beliefs, astrology and numerology. We analyze the basic processes of communication that explain how different publics deal with scientific information and we apply these insights so as to help improve communication practices in the field of science. Special focus is given on the science-society relationship and the usage of the persuasive and effective means like science museums, science exhibitions, science festivals, science busking, science cafes and pubs, public lectures, talks and discussions, scientific journalism and scientific tourism. We have implemented some of these in the frame of SWCA ROAD activities; we share our experience. It is worth mentioning that in most of these initiatives, astronomers have taken the leadership as most of the attractive topics in science communication are astronomy and space sciences, extraterrestrials, astrology, cosmic catastrophes, etc. We suggest science communicators to use entertainments including humor, storytelling and metaphors. Science communication may also be realized by websites and social media platforms. We conclude with future tendencies of science communication and benefits of the scientists and young researchers who are actively involved in science outreach activities.

The Role of Astronomy Tourism in Promoting Egypt

“…The night sky in the past was a precious asset which has a significant resource for measuring time, measure seasons, tell stories, decide the time of plant and harvest and periodic weather occurrences like floods and droughts . (Collison and Poe, 2013;Farmanyan and Mickaelian, 2018;Gretzel and Stankov, 2021). This research is addressed the following gab is that no one in Egypt talk about this topic academically i consider the first one in Egypt who is linking between astronomy and tourism, as it will reflect with many benefits to Egypt whether in attracting more tourist to experience the beauty of clear dark sky which consequently effect in positive way to the economics of the country, also raise awareness about the preservation of the night sky.…”