Orion, the Hunter, is possibly the most recognisable constellation in the sky. The vast star-forming region of the Orion Nebula depicted in this image lies within Orion’s sword and is bright enough to be visible to the naked eye. This image was made with the Wide Field Imager at ESO’s La Silla Observatory in Chile. Credit:ESO/I. Chekalin

Inclusive Astronomy Communication

Accessible Astronomy Communication for a better world

Astronomy is one of the fundamental pillars of modern science and an essential foundation for cultures worldwide. It nurtures and strengthens curiosity and forces us to understand ourselves as an infinite part of the cosmos, not as the center of it, and by doing so, it presents us with opportunities to change our perspectives and our minds, making us better equipped to foster healthier communities by promoting critical thinking, and the generation of collective knowledge. Beyond this, astronomy connects us with profound questions that transcend mindsets, borders, and generations.

For this reason, it is essential that astronomy communication always remains inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their social, economic, cultural, ethnic, or disability background. Knowledge of the cosmos is part of humanity’s shared heritage, and access to it should never be limited.

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Gallery: Inclusive Astronomy Communication

Astronomy for All

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Content

Why is accessibility important?

Despite astronomy’s relative popularity, many communities still face challenges and obstacles that restrict their participation in science, limiting their access to the resources they need to take an active part in astronomy.

From the perspective of astronomy communication, and particularly through the efforts of the Office for Astronomy Outreach (OAO), we can collectively explore a more inclusive and open approach to astronomy. The OAO works to connect and support scientists, educators, communicators and amateur astronomers, to generate resources, share experiences, adapt astronomy to cultural and linguistic diversity in today’s context, and promote responsible and open initiatives to people with disabilities. By encouraging international collaboration and strengthening local initiatives, engagement efforts can extend beyond traditional boundaries, into classrooms and communities worldwide, and beyond, through the growing network of digital spaces.


IAU CAP Inclusive Astronomy Communication WG

In addition, this effort is complemented by a working group within the framework of CAP (Communicating Astronomy With the Public), which seeks to create a space for discussion, learning, and research grounded in the practice of astronomy communication. Building on an existing trajectory within the IAU, this group joins the broader set of initiatives to advance more responsible, respectful, and accessible approaches to education and outreach. By fostering a virtual international network, it offers a platform for sharing experiences and developing strategies that are sensitive to the diverse realities of communities around the world.

Through these initiatives, the OAO seeks to work alongside the global astronomy community, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing so that, together, we can make the wonders of the Universe more accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for all. Join our community of practice working group

Information, main activities and events Inclusive Astronomy Communication

How can you be part of it and use all the resources?

How can you be part of it and use all the resources?

  1. Open research and document

  2. Examples of amazing events and initiatives

  3. Educational resources

  4. Create and public astronomy event Starter Guide (Download)

  5. Register your event in our International Astronomy Events Map
What is K I N?

What is K I N?

K I N As used in Donna Haraway´s Staying with the Trouble essay, “Kin” is a way to reimagine what family and community are today, recognizing that we need broader, more inclusive, and collaborative bonds to face the challenges of the present and the future together.

To put this vision into practice, the OAO has chosen to make K I N an annual theme and one of its central tools. Communities and outreach practitioners are encouraged to design projects and events for the public under this common theme, supported by resources compiled by the OAO as well as a set of freely available materials and graphics prepared specifically for this purpose. This approach aims to stir communities to integrate inclusion and diversity into astronomy communication in a consistent and formal way.

Inclusive Astronomy Resources

Research & Documents

Stars in your handBook

Stars in your hand

An illustrated guide to exploring the Universe in three dimensions. Astronomers have made remarkable discoveries about our Universe, despite their reliance on the flat projection, or 2D view, the sky has offered them


Not freeDetails
Zine version of the Emily Dawson bookBook

Zine version of the Emily Dawson book

A fanzine by Sophie Wang summarizing Emily Dawson's book, 'Equity, Exclusion and Everyday Science Learning'. The book explores how some people are excluded from science education and communication.

Amazing Events & Initiatives

IDATASoftware tool

IDATA

IDATA, officially known as Research Supporting Multisensory Engagement by Blind, Visually Impaired, and Sighted Students to Advance Integrated Learning of Astronomy and Computer Science.

Tactile UniverseProject Website

Tactile Universe

Tactile Universe is a public engagement project to open up astronomy and astrophysics to people with vision impairments

SSVI/Stars Shine For EveryoneProject Website

SSVI/Stars Shine For Everyone

Sterren Schitteren Voor Iedereen (Stars Shine For Everyone).An Astronomy Project for children with disabilities and underserved communities around the world

DARAProject Website

DARA

This project aims to develop high tech skills using radio astronomy in a number of African countries. Radio astronomy encompasses all of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills that underpin the emergence of a strong developed economy.

Educational Resources

More Information

All events must respect the general guidelines of the IAU Global Project and Themes, which promote the key role of astronomy for the betterment of science and society through collaboration and with a spirit of respect, tolerance, and peace.

If you need to change your events already on the calendar, please email the IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach Team via public@...Click to show with the subject line “Inclusive Astronomy Communication Calendar 2026 - Update”.If you cannot submit through this form, please email the IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach team via public@...Click to show with the subject line “Inclusive Astronomy Communication Calendar 2026 - Update”.