The city of Marrakech is hosting the 25th edition of the Marrakech Astronomy Festival from April 25 to May 3, 2026, under the theme: “Astronomy in Morocco: Scientific Heritage and Inspiration for Future Generations.”
Organized by the Marrakech Amateur Astronomy Association (3AM), in collaboration with Cadi Ayyad University, the Atlas Golf Marrakech (AGM), and the French Institute of Marrakech, this milestone edition brings together a diverse community of researchers, academics, students, and astronomy enthusiasts from Morocco and abroad.
This 25th anniversary edition places particular emphasis on Morocco’s rich astronomical heritage and the enduring contributions of its scientific community. It seeks to highlight the excellence of Moroccan researchers whose work continues to enhance the country’s standing on the international stage, while fostering inspiration among younger generations to pursue careers in science, technology, and space exploration.
The festival is deployed across several emblematic locations, including Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, Safi, and the Ourika Valley, with its central activities hosted in Marrakech at key academic and cultural institutions. The program also extends to the high-altitude Oukaimeden Observatory, offering exceptional conditions for astronomical observation.
This international scientific gathering benefits from the participation of prominent institutions such as NASA, Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), African Astronomical Society (AfAS), and the University of Sharjah, alongside leading experts from Cadi Ayyad University and committed science communicators from 3AM.
In alignment with its central theme, the festival highlights distinguished Moroccan scientists whose achievements contribute to advancing space science internationally, including Youssef Moulane, Khalid Barkaoui, and Maryame El Moutamid, an astrophysicist involved in the discovery of a new moon of Uranus using the James Webb Space Telescope. The festival also recognizes the professional contributions of engineer Naoufal Souitat in Mission Safety and Assurance within major scientific missions.
Notably, African Science Stars is participating in this milestone edition, contributing to mentorship and outreach initiatives aimed at nurturing and empowering Africa’s next generation of astronomers.
Through a comprehensive and inclusive program, comprising scientific conferences, educational workshops, public outreach initiatives, and observational sessions, the festival aims to promote scientific culture, strengthen national and international collaboration, and inspire a new generation to engage with astronomy and space sciences.
By bridging Morocco’s scientific legacy with contemporary achievements and future ambitions, the Marrakech Astronomy Festival stands as a key platform for knowledge exchange, inspiration, and the celebration of astronomy as a driver of scientific and societal development.