4th Workshop for Astronomy Beyond the Common Senses for Accessibility and Inclusion (4WAI)
30 November - 1 December 2026, Cancún, México
The Universidad Universidad Nacional de Colombia, the Universidad Tecnológica Nacional, Facultad Regional Mendoza, Argentina and the IAU EC Working Group Equity and Inclusion in Astronomy will host the IV Workshop for Astronomy Beyond the Common Senses for Accessibility and Inclusion (4WAI), which will take place within the framework of the 2026 Latin American Regional IAU Meeting (LARIM 2026).
This edition continues a growing international effort to promote equity, accessibility, and inclusion in astronomy. Building on previous editions held in Colombia, online, and Uruguay, the workshop brings together astronomers, educators, disability specialists, students, and science communicators to share experiences and innovative practices. The 4WAI provides a collaborative space to discuss inclusive methodologies, assistive technologies, and strategies that broaden participation in astronomy education, research, and outreach. Aligned with the values of the International Astronomical Union, the workshop highlights astronomy as a powerful tool for social inclusion and scientific enrichment.
The workshop will provide a collaborative platform to discuss:
- Inclusive and universal design methodologies in astronomy education
- Assistive technologies and multisensory approaches (tactile models, sonification, audio description, haptics)
- Accessibility in astronomical data, observations, and outreach
- Inclusive STEM education and community-based initiatives
- Accessibility in planetariums and science centers
- The role of digital tools, artificial intelligence, and open-source software in broadening access to astronomy
Aligned with the values of the International Astronomical Union, 4WAI highlights astronomy as a powerful tool for social inclusion and scientific enrichment, particularly across Latin America and beyond. We warmly invite researchers, educators, students, and practitioners to participate and contribute to this interdisciplinary exchange.
Important Dates
- April 15, 2026 – First announcement
- April 15, 2026 – Abstract submission opens
- May 1, 2026 – Second announcement
- August 1, 2026 – Abstract submission deadline
- August 15, 2026 – Notification of contributions
- November 30–31, 2026 – Workshop dates
- January 15, 2027 – Proceedings submission deadline
Participation
Participants are invited to submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations. Contributions may address inclusive practices, accessible astronomy education, assistive technologies, outreach initiatives, and related topics.
Registration
Registration is free of charge.
Contact
-
Kelly Blumenthal, Chair, Executive Committee WG Equity and Inclusion in Astronomy
- Beatriz Garcia, Co-Chair, Executive Committee WG Equity and Inclusion in Astronomy
