Searching for Anomalies Among four Million Galaxies

Astronomers face challenges in the detection of unusual objects in space due to the huge amount of data generated by modern
surveys such as the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). The SDSS has catalogued and classified over one billion celestial objects,
such as stars, galaxies, and quasars.

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NRF-SAASTA making science accessible at the Presidential Imbizo

NRF-SAASTA together with the CSIR, UNISA Science Engagement Centre, North West University Science Centre and North West Centre for Science and Innovation represented the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) at the Presidential Imbizo that took place at Ikageng sports Complex, Potchefstroom (Dr Kenneth Kaunda district municipality) North West province on 20 October 2023, under the theme “Leave No One Behind”.

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Self-Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms Lead to Astronomical Discoveries

Exciting findings and discoveries have been made by astronomers as they peer into the Universe with super-powerful telescopes such as Meerkat and the SSL. But there are challenges as telescopes become more advanced. Analysis of all the new data can be slow and expensive as it usually requires human capacity to classify it.

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NRF-SAASTA and MDDA affirm their commitment to science journalism development in the community media in South Africa

NRF-SAASTA signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) on 23 October 2023, which follows the culmination of their initial agreement which started in 2015. The renewal of the MoA is testament to the success of this partnership, which has leveraged the collective strength of the two partners in implementing their respective mandates.

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Exploring Space with Radio Telescopes

Neutral hydrogen (HI) makes up about 75% of the Universe’s composition,along with other elements such as helium, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen. This hydrogen is composed of tiny particles called protons and electrons.

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Changing Landscape of Science Journalism in SA

Science journalism is a vital component of informing the public about scientific advancements and discoveries…

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To read all the stories or download the full NRF Science Matters Magazine Vol 6 Issue 1

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Multimedia Gallery

Webinar – Enhancing Transparency And Public Trust In Nanotechnology  

The webinar aimed to create awareness of the nanotechnology innovation value processes as a way to forge transparency and build public trust in nanotechnology products.

Webinar – Hydrogen Regulations, Standards, Codes and Certifications 

The webinar aimed to present recent developments particularly in the Hydrogen Society Roadmap and highlight South Africa’s progress of its DSI 15-year programme.

FameLab South Africa Final 2023

Be inspired by the ten stories about African science and discover who will represent South Africa in the FameLab International Competition 2023.

Science Engagement News

NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK 2024

Call for proposal to host the NSW 2024 Activities

Call for proposal to host the NSW 2024 activities for Public Universities, Public Museums, Public Botanical Gardens & Zoos, Accredited Science Centres, Science Councils, approved STEMI Olympiads & Competitions; to form an implementation panel of the National Science Week (NSW) 2024 edition by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) for the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI).

National Science Week (NSW) is an annual event aimed at celebrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across the nation. It serves as a platform to engage the public with scientific discoveries, innovations, and their implications for society. The week-long celebration typically involves a diverse range of activities including exhibitions, workshops, lectures, competitions, and outreach programs. NSW plays a crucial role in promoting scientific literacy, fostering curiosity, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

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Strengthening Science Popularization: China-South Africa Collaboration

In a significant step towards fostering international cooperation in science popularization, a meeting was held between representatives from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa and NRF-SAASTA. Led by Shen Long, Minister Counselor for Science and Technology, and Li Yan, First Secretary for Science and Technology, the Chinese delegation engaged in discussions with NRF-SAASTA, headed by Managing Director Dr. Mamoeletsi Mosia. The focal point of the meeting was the standardization of science popularization in South Africa, with particular emphasis on the science center network and accreditation process outlined in the “Framework for the promotion of excellence in a National Network of Science Centres.”

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