A public scientific society advancing astronomy, space science and scientific discovery in Uganda.
The Uganda Astronomical Society was founded in 2023 by Obwengye Cosmus as an amateur astronomy association — an organic response to public curiosity about the night sky, rather than a government, commercial or academic initiative. That origin remains part of the Society's institutional identity.
Within three years, UAS has grown into a national public-science community with an expanding membership base, established public astronomy programming, participation in Uganda's National World Space Week, and active engagement with the country's emerging space-science ecosystem. The September 2025 total lunar eclipse and the October World Space Week activities at Makerere University demonstrated public interest and national ecosystem participation. The May 2026 Stargazing Weekend at La Brise Resort confirmed genuine public demand for organised astronomy experiences — and exposed the Society's limitations in logistics, finance, equipment management, communications and volunteer coordination.
That growth has been carried by individual initiative and voluntary effort. The problem UAS must now solve is no longer public interest; it is organisational capacity. Membership growth, event demand and the Society's expanding role in national World Space Week programming have all outpaced its inherited, informal structure.
A scientifically curious, astronomy-literate and space-aware Uganda participating confidently in the understanding and peaceful exploration of the Universe.
To foster scientific curiosity, knowledge and participation in astronomy and the broader space sciences through observation, education, research, citizen science, public engagement and collaboration, while cultivating a vibrant Ugandan space culture.
The values that guide everything we do
Evidence, observation and critical inquiry are foundational to everything we do.
Astronomy is open to everyone regardless of professional background or economic status.
Questions and wonder are legitimate starting points for scientific learning.
Members observe, contribute to citizen science, and take part in discovery — not merely consume it.
Pathways exist for students, amateurs, professionals, educators and institutions alike.
Ugandan and African astronomical knowledge, history and cultural relationships with the sky are treated with serious attention.
UAS strengthens the ecosystem by connecting existing capability rather than duplicating it.
The Society supports the peaceful advancement and application of space science.
A public scientific gateway through which Ugandans encounter astronomy, develop scientific curiosity, and find pathways into the broader space sciences, engineering and technology — anchored in astronomy as its core mandate.
UAS plays a complementary role within the national ecosystem.
Five stages of institutional development
Four levels of institutional accountability
UAS operates through four institutional levels: Governance → Administration → Programmes → Activities. General Membership elects a Governing Executive, which directs Executive Officers, who coordinate Programme Leads, who mobilise Working Groups and Volunteers for specific activities.
Be part of Uganda's growing astronomy community. Whether you're a student, educator, researcher, or stargazer — there's a place for you.