What do we really know about the universe?

Mankind's understanding of the universe was the main topic of discussion at an astronomy conference with the theme "The re-emergence of Astronomy in Africa" that took place at Maropeng Conference Centre in September 2012.

The SKA project is corroborating South Africa's position as a hub for technological investment, creating local job opportunities, investment in human capital and directly increasing the uptake of science among young people.		Dr Mike Gaylard, Managing Director, takes delegates on a tour around the HartRAO site.

The conference provided a platform for meaningful science communication, built on conversations between the 80 delegates and on multimedia interactions. The aim of the conference was to bring together scholars from diverse disciplines and academic backgrounds to discuss the historical use and impact of astronomy in the development of mankind's understanding of the universe.

Ancient astronomy vs modern society

Ancient reference to astronomy is juxtaposed with the science and technology characterising modern society. An explicit transdisciplinary approach is applied to assist in earmarking the specific challenges African intellectuals face in bringing together the meta-narratives of ancient astronomy with the science and technology that is driving the modern development of communication systems in Africa.

The conference hosted speakers from the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities and was opened with a keynote address by the then Minister of Science and Technology, Mrs Naledi Pandor.

Researchers from the SKA project reported on the substantial long-term benefits for South Africa and Africa resulting from the project, corroborating our position as a hub for technological investment, creating local job opportunities, investment in human capital and directly increasing the uptake of science among young people.

To assist in meeting government objectives, speakers at the conference were requested to give attention to the performance indicators that were identified in relation to the 'Space Science' thematic programme and Grand Challenge of the Department of Science and Technology:

• Generate independent earth observation high-resolution satellite data available for all of Africa from a constellation of satellites designed and manufactured in Africa;
• Undertake at least one launch from South African territory in partnership with another space nation, and have in place a 20-year launch capability plan;
• Specify and co-built a domestic/regional communications satellite and secure a launch date and ITU (International Telecommunication Union) slot for its operations;
• Become the preferred destination for major astronomy projects and associated international investment in construction and operations; and
• Construct a powerful radio-astronomy telescope and use it for world-class projects.

Edutainment

Edutainment was a key component of the proceedings. The site visit to HartRAO was a highlight, with delegates showing interest and actively engaging with Dr Mike Gaylard, Managing Director of the facility.

The conference provided opportunities for human capital development that will span across disciplinary divides. Students were invited to attend and participate in the conference proceedings. The intention is that these students will gain a better understanding of various dimensions of space science and astronomy, which in turn will point them to a range of possible career fields related to science and science communication.

By Anacletta Koloko, SAASTA