IAU OAD Issues 2014 Call for Proposals

The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) seeks innovative projects from around the world that aim to use astronomy to stimulate education and development in three target areas: universities and research, children and schools, and public outreach.

The OAD launched its first open call for proposals in 2012. The response was overwhelming, with 191 applications received that year. In 2013 the demand increased by 20%, with 230 applications received. Although the funds provided by the IAU are modest (enough to meet only 10% of the demand), projects that are evaluated to meet a certain standard of quality are placed on a “recommended list” for which the OAD continues to seek support.

This year the OAD call for proposals does not seek to increase the number, but rather the quality, of the proposals received. Innovation will be an important criterion for success. The deadline for receipt of proposals is midnight UTC on 31 August 2014.