NASRDA-ASEN COLLABORATIVE
27th - 28th August, 2025
"Astroscience on the African Continent"
Hybrid event... registration is required: https://norcel.net/bep/bep2025/
Scan the QR code on the poster...
Abstract
Call for Oral Presentations: “Astroscience on the African Continent”
Abstract: Astroscience offers Africa an extraordinary opportunity to play a pivotal role in the global search for life beyond Earth and deepen our understanding of the chemical processes that led to life’s emergence. The continent’s vast and geologically diverse landscapes—such as the Yusufari (Nigeria) and Namib Deserts, alkaline lakes, swamps, savannas, and meteorite-rich regions—serve as unparalleled natural metaphorical laboratories. These extreme environments mirror extraterrestrial conditions, making them vital for advancing astrobiology. Such studies help scientists identify biosignatures and model potential life-sustaining environments on planets like Venus and Mars, as well as icy moons such as Enceladus and Europa of Saturn and Jupiter respectively.
In the field of astrochemistry, African researchers are uniquely positioned to make significant strides. With the cutting-edge Square Kilometre Array (SKA) in South Africa and growing collaborations in radio astronomy, Africa has the tools to investigate complex organic molecules in space and their role in planetary formation and life’s origins. By combining astrochemistry expertise with local knowledge of organic chemistry and related sciences, Africa can lead the way in uncovering the building blocks of life.
Despite the promise of these fields, challenges such as limited funding, a shortage of specialised professionals, brain drain, and low public awareness continue to hinder progress. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration, education, and innovation. We invite national and international scientists to contribute to this vision by submitting abstracts for oral presentations in the following fields:
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Astrobiology
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Astrochemistry
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Astrophysics
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Planetary Sciences
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Geochemistry
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Atmospheric Sciences
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Meteoritics
This conference will serve as a platform to enhance scientific dialogue, cultivate international cooperation, and provide African scientists with invaluable insights into state-of-the-art research and methodologies.
Submission Details:
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Abstract Length: Approximately 500 words
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Deadline: Thursday, 31st July 2025
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Submission Email: norcelgroup@gmail.com
By embracing the promise of astrosciences, Africa can strengthen its scientific capabilities, inspire the next generation of researchers, and take its place on the global astroscience stage. These efforts will not only contribute to fundamental scientific inquiry but also enable practical applications in fields such as space technology, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
The conference will take place at NASRDA HQ, Abuja, Nigeria, with a livestream available via Zoom.
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Presenters: Please submit your abstracts promptly.
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Attendees: Registration is open at https://norcel.net/asen-2025-conference/
We look forward to your valuable contributions and participation in this landmark event!
