In its first year of existence, the young learned society has led many activities
Founded in February 2024 by ten passionate young Mozambicans, the Mozambican Astronomical Society (Associação Moçambicana de Astronomia – AMAS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to igniting a love of Astronomy and Physics in Mozambique.
AMAS fosters scientific exploration and aims to inspire the next generation of scientists. Through research, education, and public outreach initiatives, we aim contribute to the global scientific community.
A diverse team
The founding team itself exemplifies AMAS’ dedication to scientific advancement. Five members are currently pursuing PhDs in the UK and South Africa, two are nearing completion of their Master’s degrees in South Africa, one is finishing their undergraduate studies in Brazil, and the remaining two are meteorology graduates aiming for postgraduate studies.
Since its inception, AMAS has hosted a number of outreach and educational events. AMAS has organised innovative physics education programs for primary and high schools. The programs included interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and the interrogation of astronomy in the curriculum to spark students’ interest in science.
Physics education programs
Some physics education programs recognised by AMAS are highlighted below.
- Celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Astronomy.
To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Astronomy, AMAS visited Colégio Internacional Lusíadas. Young Mozambican women astronomers delivered the keynote address, showcasing the achievements of women in astronomy locally and globally. Students (Grades 5-12) participated in discussions about the role of women in astronomy, from using the electromagnetic spectrum to build telescopes to the importance of light reflection in observation. This event inspired 50 students to consider careers in science. - Role of Women in Astronomy workshop – May 03, 2024. Funded by the African Network of Women in Astronomy (AfNWA) Seed Grant, AMAS held a workshop to introduce girls (Grades 10-12) to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, with a focus on astronomy. 42 students from two schools participated in interactive activities and lectures. The program featured talks on career opportunities for women in astronomy, the importance of STEM education for national development, and practical solar observation using special filters. This workshop sparked the curiosity of girls in STEM fields and offered them a glimpse into the exciting world of astronomy.
- Bringing Knowledge of the Cosmos to Children.
As part of our ongoing mission to promote astronomy education in Mozambican schools, AMAS offered a unique learning experience to over 100 students at Instituto Nília. Led by astronomy professionals, the event featured lectures on the cosmos, the solar system, and the use of telescopes. A major highlight was the opportunity for students to safely observe the Sun with special filters. This interactive event provided students with a deeper appreciation for the universe and inspired them to explore science further.
Public outreach events
Some of the public outreach events that have been hosted by AMAS since inception include:
- First AMAS outreach event, January 20, 2024
AMAS’s first event at the Youth Square in Maputo sparked curiosity about space in over 50 people! They observed lunar craters, discussed constellations, and even saw Jupiter! - Night sky observation event: Matola – April 20, 2024
A special Astronomy Observation Fair celebrated space exploration milestones. Attendees learned about Yuri Gagarin’s historic spaceflight and the mind-blowing image of a black hole. Interactive sessions let people observe the moon and discuss the wonders of the universe. - The influence of light pollution on the observation of celestial bodies – May 18, 2024
To mark International Day of Light and International Astronomy Day, AMAS held observation fairs at two locations in Maputo, reaching over 80 people. Participants explored the night sky, discussed light pollution’s impact on observation, and learned about protecting dark skies.
These events show AMAS’s dedication to inspiring the public and fostering a love of astronomy in Mozambique.
Ongoing and Future plans
As the Mozambican Astronomical Society (AMAS) grows, its ambitions for the future of science in Mozambique flourish.
A key initiative is a teacher training program funded by a €1,000 grant from the Office of Astronomy for Education (OAE). This program will equip 30 secondary school educators with the knowledge and tools to ignite a passion for astronomy among students (grades 3-12). Interactive workshops will address the current gap in astronomy knowledge for teachers, ultimately leading to more engaging lessons and sparking student curiosity.
Additionally, AMAS plans to host its first annual conference. This landmark event aims to advance astronomy in Mozambique, promote various scientific disciplines, and inspire the next generation of researchers. Open to educators, students, and professionals across all science fields, the conference will foster collaboration through a variety of activities, including lectures, workshops, night sky observations, and panel discussions. By encouraging broad participation, AMAS hopes to enrich the scientific community in Mozambique and establish the conference as a significant milestone for science development in the country and Africa as a whole.
Victoria Samboco, Rhodes University, Laurinda Macaringue, Francisco Macucule, University of South Africa (UNISA)
Contributing Editor: Joyful Mdhluli
This article has been published by the African Physics Newsletter in November 2024. It is reproduced with the authorization of the American Physical Society
