This edition was marked by the tribute paid to Professor Zouhair Benkhaldoun, astrophysicist at Cadi Ayyad University and Director of the Oukaimeden Observatory, in recognition of his contribution to scientific research in astronomy.
The city of Ifrane is hosting the 4th edition of the Astronomy Festival from 4 to 7 September under the theme: "Our star, the sun. Source of light and energy".
A cultural and scientific event that aims to promote the dissemination of scientific knowledge to the general public and young people in order to stimulate their interest in science and technology.
Thus, the 4th edition of the festival offers numerous activities for children and young people to raise their awareness of the discipline in a fun way, notably astro-mornings for young people; open-air astronomy workshops; planetarium popularisation sessions; and star observations (starry nights).
The programme was also marked by the organisation of the national "Little Astronomer" competition, which this year focused on "The journey to Mars, the challenge of the 21st century", which aims to stimulate imagination based on research among young people.
Also, numerous conferences and meetings are scheduled with the participation of amateur astronomers and national and international specialists; scientific and artistic exhibitions on the festival's theme; as well as night sky observation sessions with telescopes to take advantage of the sky in the city of Ifrane.
The organisers of the 2015 edition of the Astronomy Festival also took the opportunity to pay tribute to Professor Zouhair Benkhaldoun, astrophysicist at Cadi Ayyad University and Director of the Oukaimeden Observatory, "for his contribution to scientific research in astronomy and his dedication to the popularisation of this science in Morocco".
It should be recalled that the festival is initiated by Al Akhawayn University, in partnership with the Ifrane province, the Network of Amateur Astronomers of Morocco (RAAM), the UNAWE-Morocco programme, the Casablanca Astronomy Association (ACA), the Rabat Astronomy Association (2AR), and the CITI Association for the promotion of innovative technologies in science education.
