Kathmandu, January 21

International Astronomical Union has appointed Suresh Bhattarai, Chairman at Nepal Astronomical Society as the National Outreach Coordinator for Nepal.

The IAU is an international astronomical organisation that brings together more than 12,000 professional astronomers from around the world. Its mission is to promote and safeguard all aspects of the science of astronomy through international cooperation.

Bhattarai was provided a letter of appointment by the General Secretary of IAU Professor Maria Teresa Lago today.

The term of the NOC will be for a maximum of three years. Speaking to THT Bhattarai said, “ I am committed to my role and duty. I will do my best to spread knowledge about Astronomy in the country.”

Meanwhile, Nepal is not a member country of IAU and not a single person representing Nepal or Nepali institutes are members of IAU.

The IAU membership demands at least PhD in any stream of Astronomy.

Bhattarai who considers himself an astronomy educator had researched Astrophysics and Plasma Physics in his Masters degree.