In large-scale galaxy surveys, particularly deep ground-based photometric studies, galaxy blending was inevitable. Such blending posed a potential primary systematic uncertainty for upcoming surveys. Current deblenders predominantly depended on analytical modelling of galaxy profiles, facing limitations due to inflexible and imprecise models. We presented a novel approach, using a U-net structured transformer-based network for deblending astronomical images, which we term the CAT-deblender. It was trained using both RGB and the grz-band images, spanning two distinct data formats present in the Dark Energy Camera Legacy Survey (DECaLS) database, including galaxies with diverse morphologies in the training dataset. Our method necessitated only the approximate central coordinates of each target galaxy, sourced from galaxy detection, bypassing assumptions on neighbouring source counts. Post-deblending, our RGB images retained a high signal-to-noise peak, consistently showing superior structural similarity against ground truth. For multi-band images, the ellipticity of central galaxies and median reconstruction error for r-band consistently lie within $\pm$0.025 to $\pm$0.25, revealing minimal pixel residuals. In our comparison of deblending capabilities focused on flux recovery, our model showed a mere 1% error in magnitude recovery for quadruply blended galaxies, significantly outperforming SExtractor’s higher error rate of 4.8%. Furthermore, by cross-matching with the publicly accessible overlapping galaxy catalogs from the DECaLS database, we successfully deblended 433 overlapping galaxies. Moreover, we have demonstrated effective deblending of 63 733 blended galaxy images, randomly chosen from the DECaLS database.

We investigate the relationship between a dark matter halo’s mass profile and measures of the velocity dispersion of kinematic tracers within its gravitational potential. By predicting the scaling relation of the halo mass with the aperture velocity dispersion, $M_\mathrm{vir} - \unicode{x03C3}_\mathrm{ap}$, we present the expected form and dependence of this halo mass tracer on physical parameters within our analytic halo model: parameterised by the halo’s negative inner logarithmic density slope, $\unicode{x03B1}$, its concentration parameter, c, and its velocity anisotropy parameter, $\unicode{x03B2}$. For these idealised halos, we obtain a general solution to the Jeans equation, which is projected over the line of sight and averaged within an aperture to form the corresponding aperture velocity dispersion profile. Through dimensional analysis, the $M_\mathrm{vir} - \unicode{x03C3}_\mathrm{ap}$ scaling relation is devised explicitly in terms of analytical bounds for these aperture velocity dispersion profiles: allowing constraints to be placed on this relation for motivated parameter choices. We predict the $M_{200} - \unicode{x03C3}_\mathrm{ap}$ and $M_{500} - \unicode{x03C3}_\mathrm{ap}$ scaling relations, each with an uncertainty of $60.5\%$ and $56.2\%$, respectively. These halo mass estimates are found to be weakly sensitive to the halo’s concentration and mass scale, and most sensitive to the size of the aperture radius in which the aperture velocity dispersion is measured, the maximum value for the halo’s inner slope, and the minimum and maximum values of the velocity anisotropy. Our results show that a halo’s structural and kinematic profiles impose only a minor uncertainty in estimating its mass. Consequently, spectroscopic surveys aimed at constraining the halo mass using kinematic tracers can focus on characterising other, more complex sources of uncertainty and observational systematics.

Post-asymptotic giant branch stars (post-AGB) in binary systems, with typical orbital periods between $\sim\!100$ to $\sim$1 000 days, result from a poorly understood interaction that terminates their precursory AGB phase. The majority of these binaries display a photospheric anomaly called ‘chemical depletion’, thought to arise from an interaction between the circumbinary disc and the post-AGB star, leading to the reaccretion of pure gas onto the star, devoid of refractory elements due to dust formation. In this paper, we focus on a subset of chemically peculiar binary post-AGBs in the Galaxy and the Magellanic Clouds (MCs). Our detailed stellar parameter and chemical abundance analysis utilising high-resolution optical spectra from VLT+UVES revealed that our targets span a $T_{\rm eff}$ of 4 900–7 250 K and [Fe/H] of −0.5 - −1.57 dex. Interestingly, these targets exhibit a carbon ([C/Fe] ranging from 0.5 - 1.0 dex, dependant on metallicity) and s-process enrichment ($\textrm{[s/Fe]}\,\geq\!1$dex) contrary to the commonly observed chemical depletion pattern. Using spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting and period–luminosity–colour (PLC) relation methods, we determine the luminosity of the targets (2 700–8 300 $\rm L_{\odot}$), which enables confirmation of their evolutionary phase and estimation of initial masses (as a function of metallicity) (1–2.5 $\textrm{M}_{\odot}$). In conjunction with predictions from dedicated ATON stellar evolutionary models, our results indicate a predominant intrinsic enrichment of carbon and s-process elements in our binary post-AGB targets. We qualitatively rule out extrinsic enrichment and inherited s-process enrichment from the host galaxy as plausible explanations for the observed overabundances. Our chemically peculiar subset of intrinsic carbon and s-process enriched binary post-AGBs also hints at potential variation in the efficiency of chemical depletion between stars with C-rich and O-rich circumbinary disc chemistries. However, critical observational studies of circumbinary disc chemistry, along with specific condensation temperature estimates in C-rich environments, are necessary to address gaps in our current understanding of disc-binary interactions inducing chemical depletion in binary post-AGB systems.

One of the best methods to investigate and calculate a desired quantity using available limited data is the Bayesian statistical method, which has been recently entered the field of nuclear astrophysics and can be used to evaluate the astrophysical S-factors, the cross sections and, as a result, the nuclear reaction rates of Big Bang Nucleosynthesis. This study tries to calculate the astrophysical S-factor and the rate of reaction T(d,n)4He as an important astrophysical reaction with the help of this method in energies lower that electron repulsive barrier, and for this purpose, it uses the R-Software, which leads to improved results in comparison with the non-Bayesian methods for the mentioned reaction rate.

Odd Radio Circles (ORCs) are a class of low surface brightness, circular objects approximately one arcminute in diameter. ORCs were recently discovered in the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) data and subsequently confirmed with follow-up observations on other instruments, yet their origins remain uncertain. In this paper, we suggest that ORCs could be remnant lobes of powerful radio galaxies, re-energised by the passage of a shock. Using relativistic hydrodynamic simulations with synchrotron emission calculated in post-processing, we show that buoyant evolution of remnant radio lobes is alone too slow to produce the observed ORC morphology. However, the passage of a shock can produce both filled and edge-brightnened ORC-like morphologies for a wide variety of shock and observing orientations. Circular ORCs are predicted to have host galaxies near the geometric centre of the radio emission, consistent with observations of these objects. Significantly offset hosts are possible for elliptical ORCs, potentially causing challenges for accurate host galaxy identification. Observed ORC number counts are broadly consistent with a paradigm in which moderately powerful radio galaxies are their progenitors.

As a blind astrophysicist, I am confronted on a daily basis with the challenges of conducting a research program in a field where visual interfaces to information are all pervasive, and within which the analysis of data and presentation of results are dominated by visual tools. From basic activities such as finding and reading a research paper, through the manipulation and interrogation of data, to the visualisation and presentation of results, the barriers to equitable access for a person who is blind or has low-vision (BLV) are significant, and in some cases insurmountable. In this talk I will describe some of the barriers that I have encountered in my own research activities, the range of solutions that I am applying, and directions in which accessibility for BLV researchers might be further enhanced.

Astronomical education for senior citizens is important from the social sciences side. For example, it is known that lifelong education is effective in protecting old people from isolation. Hence, if lifelong education for senior citizens can be enriched in fields with high social interest like astronomy, a major contribution will be made in this regard.

On the other hand, however, there are also unique difficulties in the astronomy education for seniors. As we get older there are serious physical declines, such as that of the eyesight and hearing. Furthermore, the astronomical knowledge that the seniors studied in their school education is rather out of date. The preconceptions based on old knowledge may hinder the understanding of modern astronomy.

In the future, with the gain of the average life expectancy, the elderly population will increase rapidly, especially in developed countries. In addition, the average age of communicators and educators will be also much higher. In preparation for the future, it will be necessary to discuss methods for safely and effectively performing astronomical education for senior citizens by the senior communicators. In this manuscript, we would like to introduce some tips for discussion based on the results of previous questionnaires.

We composed music using light curves of variable stars. We made a questionnaire about the feeling created by this music.

Modern societies have an increasing number of technological developments which are shaping the structure and execution of daily duties. Communities with disabilities have historically experienced restricted access to many opportunities of study, work and leisure, but now the emergence of new resources and appliances is likely to increase the inequity gap unless actions against this are reinforced at different levels in the society. Every person, regardless of any aspect should have an equal right and opportunity to access, engage with and contribute to knowledge, participating actively in the decisions, institutions and processed, and making use of new technologies. Unfortunately, in many cases, access to this is not feasible because the frameworks for inclusive involvement and engagement are not being implemented or are not implemented in an appropriate way. This work highlights the importance to ensure inclusive participation in astronomy education, research and outreach, identifying the barriers preventing people with disabilities to engage and progress in all the aspects that are natural of our scientific field and underpinning the crucial actions that can foster equality, accessibility and inclusivity.

This study explores the role of indigenous women in Malaysia as custodians of astronomical knowledge and their potential contributions to STEM education. Through ethnographic fieldwork with the Semelai community, it was observed that women possess advanced knowledge of stellar positioning, celestial events, and seasonal cycles, often surpassing their male counterparts in these areas. However, this traditional knowledge is undervalued in formal education systems that prioritize Western science paradigms, creating a disconnect between indigenous knowledge and modern STEM curricula. To address this gap, an educational and public outreach (EPO) pilot project was initiated to integrate indigenous and Western scientific paradigms. By involving mothers in STEM learning through cultural and technological tools, the project aims to empower indigenous women as educators and bridge the cultural divide in science education. This approach highlights the importance of embracing pluralistic knowledge systems to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM fields.

Every city in Chile has its own blind and visually impaired (BVI) groups, where members meet to engage in various recreational activities, rehabilitation therapies, and sports (Corporación para Ciegos en Chile n.d.). We have realized that scientific and cultural activities are not usually an option for them. We are also aware that Chile has laws to include BVI children in schools, but these do not guarantee that the education they receive is properly adapted to their needs. Dedoscopio creates opportunities for people to learn about astronomy in an interactive and engaging way. Our main goal is to reach BVI groups across Chile, offering them an alternative to their usual activities. To enhance the quality of knowledge exchange for BVI individuals, we are evaluating our activities using both formative and summative assessment methods. This approach helps us improve and clarify knowledge about astronomy and the latest discoveries in the field. We will present the results of these evaluations, based on the activities carried out this year, using a combination of tactile and sound materials (Bearmejo et al. 2002).

Most tools for astrophysical research was centred on visual display. Even after some studies shows that the use of sound could help the data analysis, and, on another hand, generate more accessibility. This fact motivates the creation of a tool centred on researchers with and without visual impairments. To carry out this challenge on this contribution, a theoretical framework based on visual-impaired people was created and included on the sonoUno software. After that, the accessibility of the tool was analysed with the ISO standard 9241-171:2008.

The European Astronomical Society (EAS) is a society of professional astronomers working in Europe, with currently around 2500 members. It is supported by a network of affiliated societies: close to 30 national societies in most countries in Europe. Among other activities, the EAS organises an annual meeting which attracts well over 1000 participants and provides a forum for both scientific discussions and collaborations, and discussions about issues of science policy. The EAS Council formally adopted, in January 2018, the report produced by the EAS Ethics Working Group entitled EAS Ethics Statement and Guidelines for Good Practice. It is being used by organisers and participants of the EAS Annual Meeting, and is promoted as a tool for discussion and good practice throughout our field. The Ethics Statement covers a very wide range of topics, including Conduct towards others, Research, Publication and authorship, Peer review, Conflicts of interest, Organisation of and professional conduct at conferences and meetings, Fair recruiting, Widening access to our profession, Recommendations for fair employment practices, and Ethics in publishing. We will outline the history and contents of the EAS Ethics Statement and how it will be further developed, and thus illustrate how a scientific society can provide guidance.

The Asia-Pacific Space Generation Workshop (AP-SGW) provides a platform for students and young professionals to address pressing issues in the regional space sector. During the 5th AP-SGW in 2018, a working group on gender diversity explored the importance of equitable representation in the space industry, focusing on the Asia-Pacific context. This paper discusses the group’s findings on gender disparity trends, the benefits of diversity in innovation and workforce productivity, and strategies to bridge the gender gap. Proposed actions include policy advocacy, inclusive recruitment practices, digital technology adoption, and cultural shifts to empower women and underrepresented genders. By promoting diversity and inclusion, the space sector can unlock its full potential to drive innovation and achieve sustainable development goals.

(COSmos harMONIC) is a sonification project with three primary objectives: data analysis through sound, artistic inspiration, and educational outreach. This contribution focuses on the project’s efforts in inclusive astronomy outreach, particularly within the initiative, aimed at audiences including blind and partially sighted individuals, as well as a broader public seeking alternative ways to engage with astrophysics. strives to create simple, acoustically accessible astronomical cases that are easy to understand. By using sonification to complement visual data, pairs its audio creations with animations to offer a more holistic experience. This contribution presents several examples of these sonifications and reflects on our experiences with diverse audiences. Additionally, it offers insights on the role of sonification in inclusive and multi-cultural scientific outreach.

We developed a flexible extended eyepiece using optical fibres that can be used by people with severe physical handicaps for viewing celestial objects. This eyepiece can be easily attached to small telescopes and its 1-m length allows bedridden people to view through it. The diameter of the fibre bundle is 2.5 mm which provides a 4.3 arcmin diameter field of view with a 2000 mm focal length telescope, or 34 arcmin with a 250 mm focal length. We report on its potential utilisation at hospitals or similar sites and the process of the development in its presentation.

Astronomy is one field that has no boundaries as every human being enjoys the magnificent beauty of the night sky. However, engagement with people in post-conflict countries or regions in terms of astronomy education, development and outreach has been limited due to the absence of peaceful environments in which to conduct these activities. This is due to the impact of low levels of trust created because of conflict. In this presentation, we share the experiences of using astronomy education to foster peace, inclusivity, diversity, and empathy in a bid to create environments of inclusivity with lessons learnt from the July 2019 International Institute on Peace Education (IIPE) conference in Cyprus.

Under the framework of the IAU 100th Anniversary, Program Group Network Astronomy for School Education (NASE) has selected “The Power of the Sun” as the key scientific activity for schools and general public. Preparing methods that would allow people to determine the Power of the Sun despite any disability was a major challenge. After evaluating the inclusiveness of the activities that had to develop to achieve the goals, two different methods were used concerning the major difficulties we recognised that would arise during the activities. One method should provide a possibility to be done by people that have any kind of photosensitivity and the other should give blind people the possibility to also measure the solar luminosity.

The workshop to search for candidates for astronomical phenomena from historical documents, was held from 2016. In order to succeed in joint research between astronomy and history, it is important to respect each other’s fields, and when we actually got to know each other’s fields, we realized that a commonality is that research is being conducted in collaboration with not only professional researchers but also citizens. This common premise is thought to have made the workshop work well, and we can expect it to develop into a new form of citizen science.

The proportion of female researchers in Japan is low, and many institutions are implementing a range of measures to improve the gender balance. We discuss the past, present, and future of the gender equality at the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ). We show the change of the proportion of women in NAOJ from the graduate-student level to the senior-staff level. The number of female researchers in NAOJ is gradually increasing, but it is still low compared with similar institutions in other countries.

Parenting support is one of the measures for the promotion of the gender equality in NAOJ. The supporting system is highly valued by younger researchers irrespective of gender, and significantly contributes to retain and attract young researchers to NAOJ.