The 2024 ODE Outreach Prize is awarded to Saran Poshyachinda for his vision and passionate leadership in creating a world-leading outreach and education programme in Thailand. Saran’s most noteworthy achievement is the establishment of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) in 2009 and the formation and expansion of the NARIT outreach team that has transformed Thailand’s astronomical landscape and brought astronomy to the public at large. Before NARIT, there was no adequate astronomy institute in Thailand, so Saran chose to pursue chemistry as his profession while keeping astronomy as a hobby since his childhood. The NARIT outreach team now reaches 700,000 people annually, including disadvantaged and physically challenged groups in society, more than any other research organisation in Thailand. Saran planned and established five Regional Public Observatories throughout the country, enabling the general public to access telescopes and facilitating teacher training programmes in various regions and neighbouring countries. He also established the hugely popular Princess Sirindhorn AstroPark, and played a key role in making the 2.4m Thai National Telescope and the 40m Thai National Radio Telescope a reality. In light of these achievements, alongside Saran's successful advocacy for including astronomy topics in the national science curriculum, his impact in increasing awareness of astronomy throughout Thailand is immeasurable.

Saran Poshyachinda said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the ODE Prize. This prestigious recognition is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collaborative efforts and unwavering support of my colleagues. Moreover, it underscores the importance of astronomy outreach in Thailand. Promoting scientific curiosity and education in our communities can inspire the next generation of astronomers and scientists, fostering a culture of exploration and discovery. Thank you for this incredible honour. I am profoundly grateful and look forward to contributing even more to our community.

About the ODE Prize : https://www.iau.org/news/pressreleases/detail/iau2407