Free Astronomy Training for TU-K Students

To support the development of astronomy in Africa and ensure that opportunities in this area are open to African citizens the Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy project (DARA) is running a basic training programme, which offers the opportunity to become familiar with the basics of astrophysics and radio astronomy. Trainees will gain theoretical and practical experience in these skills, as well as advice on the industrial opportunities afforded by these new skills. The basic training programme is fully funded by the University of Leeds, and therefore trainees will not have to pay a fee or incur any costs. The training package includes accommodation, meals and travel to the training venues in South Africa and Kenya. An out-of- pocket allowance will also be included to cover other incidental expenses. The training will be delivered by experts from the UK, South Africa and the African Partner Countries (see above). Hands-on training in optical astronomy will take place at the Turkana Basin Institute in northern Kenya. Practical training in radio astronomy will take place at the Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Observatory in South Africa. Computer skills training in Linux and Python will also be provided, as well as training in data analysis and reduction. The training will culminate in the DARA Annual Network Meeting, where trainees will get the opportunity to network with Astronomy researchers, as well as entrepreneurs from the commercial space sector. Click here for details