Celebrating more than two decades of astronomical collaboration between South Africa and the Netherlands: insights from Dr Adrian Tiplady (Deputy MD) and Pontsho Maruping (MD)

0:00

At the 2024 Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) SARAO proudly participated in an event celebrating over two decades of groundbreaking collaboration in astronomy between South Africa and the Netherlands.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the SFSA 2024 Dr Adrian Tiplady, Deputy Managing Director of SARAO, reflected on the remarkable growth of radio astronomy in South Africa. He highlighted SARAO’s role in global initiatives like the VLBI and the contribution of the Hartebeesthoek site. Tiplady emphasised South Africa’s astronomy advantage, with the Karoo being one of the best global locations for radio telescopes such as MeerKAT and the ’ Square Kilometre Array (SKA). He also noted the exponential growth of local astronomers, and how SARAO is delivering not just cutting-edge science and technology but also meaningful societal impact through global collaborations.

Pontsho Maruping, SARAO’s Managing Director, joined the panel to discuss SARAO’s commitment to community development, particularly in the Northern Cape where MeerKAT is based. She highlighted SARAO’s impactful initiatives, including:
– Human capacity building and support for schools, local artisans, and businesses.
– Infrastructure development, such as electricity, tarred roads and fiber internet.
– Preserving local heritage and promoting astro-tourism through stargazing programs.

Maruping emphasized that MeerKAT, with a lifespan of over 50 years, will not only revolutionise astronomy but also create lasting benefits for communities, making SARAO a beacon of global science and local development.

This event underscored the power of international partnerships and SARAO’s mission to advance science while uplifting society.

#SAandNL #AstronomyCollaboration #ScienceForumSA #SARAO #MeerKAT #Innovation #CommunityImpact #AstroTourism

Watch on youtube: https://youtu.be/_XIjFtwvjfU?t=1716