National Outreach
Coordinators Network

A National Outreach Coordinator (NOC) is a representative who connects astronomy communicators across their nation with the IAU Office for Astronomy Outreach to strengthen astronomy communication and education.

By leveraging this connection, NOCs help bring astronomy-related opportunities, resources, and initiatives to their local communities, adapting them to their specific needs and contexts.

Their role is to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and ensure that astronomy benefits society at all levels.

The NOCs implement the IAU public engagement initiatives at the national level, disseminate information, and bridge the IAU with local/national communities. This is a totally volunteer (non-renumerated), online and international network.

• Be involved with and have connections to their community.
• Be actively engaged in astronomy communication and public engagement.
• Have plans and the means to create and disseminate materials.
• Be willing to collaborate with other NOCs.
• Understand the NOC role, be willing to participate fully in the network and all it entails, and have a plan for how they will leverage the NOC role for the benefit of their communities.
• Be committed to the OAO motto: Astronomy for Everyone.

• Participate in the Global Project and Themes by distributing OAO materials, engaging with the projects laid out by the OAO or independently developing projects based on the OAO's content.
• Attend at least 50% of all NOC-related meetings held by the OAO.
• Share activities at least once throughout the year.
• Report on quarterly events and activities.
• Contribute internal structures that benefit the broader network.
• Engage with other NOCs.
• Act as a point of contact between the IAU and OAO, and the communities the NOC represents.
• Develop plans for the public engagement actions associated with the IAU nationwide.

NOC cycles are aligned with the three-year of the IAU General Assemblies. After applying, sitting for an interview with a member of the OAO Team, and being approved by the OAO and the IAU National Member or National Committee for Astronomy (where applicable), new NOCs are brought into the network for a three-year period.

What are the next steps?

• Get in touch with your local NOC. You can find all contact information in each country's NOC site.
• If your nation is not represented by a NOC, write to us at public@...Click to show, to receive a link for the application form. If
• After a detailed review, we will schedule an interview to discuss y our work with the Office for Astronomy Outreach team.

By becoming a member of the NOC Network, you will gain access to a range of unique benefits that will allow you to play a key role in the scientific development of your region and country, while connecting your community to the world of science. Here are some of the benefits you will enjoy:

• Impact on your community and nation: You will be actively involved in scientific projects that contribute to the progress of your environment, helping to develop and apply knowledge for the direct benefit of society.
• International network of science communicators: You will become part of a global network spanning over 120 nations, working together to promote astronomy and science in general, creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual learning.
• Access to exclusive resources: As an Affiliate Member of the IAU (International Astronomical Union), you will gain access to valuable academic and educational resources that will enhance your scientific knowledge and capabilities.
• Opportunities for funding: The NOC Network will provide you with access to funding opportunities for your public engagement projects, enabling you to implement initiatives that benefit your country and promote astronomy in your region.

By joining the NOC Network, you will not only contribute to the advancement of science but also become a leader within the global astronomical community, connecting and collaborating with people from all over the world.