Brussels 19.02.2025 South Africa (SA) is manifesting itself as a leading astro-tourism destination with the introduction of a government-backed Astro-Tourism Strategy, planned to be presented in Parliament by Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande.
Developed in co-operation with the Department of Tourism, the strategy aims to engage the country’s world-class astronomical infrastructure, including the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, to upgrade both tourism and science.
Logarithmic Map of the Entire Observable Universe pic.twitter.com/FJHdd0m3f7
— All day Astronomy (@forallcurious) February 19, 2025
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Symbiosis of astronomy, and tourism, the initiative is expected to create employment, foster economic opportunities in rural areas, and attract cultured travellers seeking stargazing and observatory experiences.
Department of Tourism together with Department of Science & Innovation presenting the draft National Astro-Tourism Strategy to the joint meeting of the portfolio on science, technology, innovation & tourism committees. #AstroTourism @dstigovza pic.twitter.com/YKTpbrnIF9
— Dept of Tourism (@Tourism_gov_za) February 18, 2025
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The new strategy proposes investments in visitor facilities, dark-sky reserves, and educational experiences, while encouraging partnerships with tour operators and local communities. Similar models have succeeded in Chile and the United States, positioning observatories as major places of pilgrimage.
#GovZAUpdates | Minister @DrBladeNzimande presents the National Astro- Tourism Strategy to Parliament pic.twitter.com/F0cVJuH2MI
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 18, 2025
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South Africa’s clear skies and waste landscapes provide an ideal setting for this niche segment, aligning with global trends in sustainable tourism. With a growing focus on scientific tourism, the initiative is expected to enhance infrastructure, attrack international visitors, and bolster the country’s reputation as a hub for space science and exploration.
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