The International Astronomical Union

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) was founded on July 28, 1919. It is an international union of professional astronomers, at the PhD level and beyond, active in professional research and education in astronomy. The Union has a total of 12,664 individual members who are professional astronomers from 96 countries around the world (as of February 1, 2017).

Astronomy, astrophysics, and space science (AASS) play an active role in science, technology, and community development. Unfortunately, only a small portion of this knowledge is actually used in teaching at schools, universities, and other academic institutions in Arab countries. The challenge lies in providing effective professional development for astronomy and space science teachers and researchers at all levels, from elementary school to university. There is also a pressing need for better communication channels between Arab astronomers and space scientists today. The best option, therefore, is to reconnect with the vast cultural heritage of the Arab world, particularly in astronomy. Building modern, high-quality observatories, planetariums, and research centers in the region — in partnership with Arab astronomers and space scientists — is essential, and would be an excellent step toward advancing the development of astronomy and space sciences.

The Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences (AUASS) was active in proposing projects and submitting a proposal to host a regional office in the Arab world. The International Astronomical Union found the AUASS proposal to be strong and well justified, as it represented all Arab states. During the 11th Arab Conference on Astronomy and Space Sciences, held in Sharjah (United Arab Emirates) from December 5–8, 2014, under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, the AUASS discussed this matter with Mr. Kevin Govender of the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), in the presence of members of the AUASS Supreme Council. As a result, it was decided to select the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to host the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development for the Arab region, and an agreement to this effect was signed at the IAU General Assembly in Honolulu in August 2015.