Astronomy for a Better World: How the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development Uses Astronomy to Drive Global Development

Physics is more than a science, it is a driver of innovation, education, and sustainable development. Astronomy, a field within physics, shows how fundamental research can help address global challenges. The International Astronomical Union’s (IAU) Strategic Plan 2020-2030 aims to “promote the use of astronomy as a tool for development in every country.” To realise this, the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) harnesses astronomy’s scientific, technological, and cultural strengths to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since its establishment, the OAD has supported over 230 projects in 112 countries and built a global network of 11 regional offices and language centres. Its initiatives span economic growth through astrotourism, astronomy’s role in mental health and well-being, and the application of astronomy’s data skills to wider development challenges. These efforts demonstrate how a field rooted in curiosity and discovery can meaningfully impact society.

These efforts within Astronomy provide an example of how physics can shape society beyond the laboratory. Drawing from its ~15 years of experience, the OAD invites a broader consideration of how the diverse fields of physics - across areas such as optics, quantum technologies, and materials science - can similarly drive innovation, foster collaboration, and contribute to solving society’s most pressing challenges.