06 Nov SALT Turns 20: Celebrating Two Decades of Discovery
SALT Turns 20: Celebrating Two Decades of Discovery
This month marks a major milestone for South African and global astronomy — the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) celebrates 20 years since its inauguration on 10 November 2005. As Africa’s Giant Eye on the Sky, SALT has transformed our view of the Universe and inspired generations of scientists, students, and visitors alike.
Over the past two decades, SALT has delivered groundbreaking discoveries — from witnessing colliding neutron stars to uncovering distant galaxies — while building local expertise and fostering international collaboration.
SALT’s spirit of international collaboration and community engagement deeply resonates with the goals of the World Science Day for Peace and Development, which is also celebrated on the 10th of November.
Join us as we look back on SALT’s remarkable journey and ahead to the next era of innovation.
Read more in our 20-year anniversary brochure below.
Programme
Saturday, 8 November 2025 |
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| 09:00 – 14:00 | Public event at the Primary School in Sutherland, with activities for children and adults |
| 10:00 | Welcome remarks:
Prize giving by school principals |
| 20:30 – 23:30 | Public stargazing on the SAAO plateau (booking required) |
Monday, 10 November 2025 |
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| 13:00 – 15:00 | Official ceremony (by invitation only) |