NASSP–NRF|SAAO Winter School 2026: Inspiring the Next Generation of Astronomers 

The annual National Astrophysics and Space Science Programme (NASSP)-SAAO Winter School held at the South African Astronomical Observatory recently, from 24 June to 3 July 2026, was the fourth in-person Winter School since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted activities in 2020. The Winter School introduces third-year university students to astronomy, especially those from universities that do not offer astronomy or related degree programmes. Allowing students to learn about astronomy, interact with researchers, and experience what it is like to study and work in the field. The Winter School also serves as an important recruitment initiative for NASSP, encouraging talented black South African students from Historically Disadvantaged Institutions to consider pursuing postgraduate studies in astronomy and related fields. From its inception, this approach has contributed to the increased number of black South African students enrolling in NASSP. 

This year, 20 students (8 women and 12 men) were selected to attend the NASSP-SAAO Winter School from a pool of 104 applications. Even in previous years, 2023-2025, the volume of applications was just as high, although there was a slight decrease from 126 in 2025 to 104 in 2026. Interest in the programme remains strong. The selected students came from seven universities across South Africa: North-West University (Mahikeng Campus), Sol Plaatje University, the University of the Free State (Qwaqwa Campus), the University of Limpopo, the University of Venda, the University of Zululand, and Walter Sisulu University. By bringing together students from different parts of the country, the Winter School provides an opportunity for them to discover astronomy, learn from leading scientists, and explore future study and career opportunities in the field.  

Each morning, students attended lectures presented by astronomers from the NRF|SAAO, the University of Cape Town (UCT), and other institutions within the NASSP partnership. The lectures covered a broad range of topics, including stellar evolution, galaxies, cosmology, Solar System science, machine learning in astronomy and science communication, while providing ample opportunities for questions and discussion. Outside of formal presentations and formal lecture sessions, students were also encouraged to engage with the presenters. 

In addition to the astronomy lectures, postgraduate students and tutors led practical sessions on essential research skills, including astronomical data reduction, Python programming, LaTeX, and the Linux operating system. These sessions equipped participants with valuable practical skills that will support their future studies and research. 

A highlight of the Winter School was the weekend visit to the NRF|SAAO observing site in Sutherland (26–28 June). During the visit, students toured the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) and several other telescopes, gaining first-hand experience of South Africa’s world-class astronomical facilities. For many participants, this was their first opportunity to visit a professional observatory and see cutting-edge astronomical research infrastructure in operation. 

The programme is designed to expand the students’ knowledge of astronomy while also giving them a deeper appreciation of how scientific research is conducted and the many opportunities available within the field. 

Immense gratitude goes to all the lecturers, tutors, and staff members who contributed to the success of the 2026 Winter School. We are especially grateful to those who led tours of the NRF|SAAO facilities in Cape Town and Sutherland, as well as to colleagues from UCT and our other partner institutions, for generously sharing their expertise, time, and enthusiasm. Their dedication to supporting and inspiring the next generation of scientists enriched the Winter School and made it a memorable experience for the participants.