Hanoi hosts 19th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics

Hanoi is hosting the 19th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2026) at Phenikaa University for the first time. This edition is the largest to date, featuring 67 teams and approximately 320 contestants representing 66 countries and territories.

Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau attended the opening ceremony, stating that Vietnam identifies science, technology, and innovation as top national priorities. He noted that hosting the event is a step toward nurturing young talent and connecting Vietnamese youth with the international scientific community. Vietnam is also investing in space science, including Earth-observation satellites and observatories in Hoa Lac and Khanh Hoa.

Professor Aniket Sule, Chair of the IOAA Committee, was also in attendance. The competition serves as a forum for young scientists to share knowledge and foster cross-cultural connections through the common language of science.