Who We Are + What We Do
The Canadian Astronomical Society (CASCA) is the national association of astronomy professionals in Canada. CASCA’s members are scientists, engineers, students, and institutional partners engaged in research, education, and public outreach in astronomy & astrophysics. As the national professional organization for its members, CASCA conducts scientific planning and advocates for community priorities to foster Canada’s engagement in world-class astronomy research.
Mission
CASCA’s mission is to facilitate the advancement and sharing of astronomical knowledge through equitable, inclusive, and sustainable scientific research, education, and outreach.
Values Statement
CASCA holds the following core values:
- Scientific curiosity, integrity, and impact
- Inclusivity, equity, and accessibility in research and learning
- Indigenous reconciliation
- Environmental sustainability
CASCA strives to conduct its mission following its core values.
Qui sommes-nous et ce que nous faisons
La Société canadienne d’astronomie (CASCA) est l’association nationale des professionnels de l’astronomie au Canada. Ses membres sont des scientifiques, des ingénieurs, des étudiants et des partenaires institutionnels engagés dans la recherche, l’éducation et la sensibilisation du public en astronomie et en astrophysique. En tant qu’organisation professionnelle nationale, la CASCA assure la planification scientifique et défend les priorités communautaires afin de favoriser l’engagement du Canada dans la recherche astronomique de calibre mondial pour ses membres.
Mission
La mission de la CASCA est de faciliter l’avancement et le partage des connaissances astronomiques par la recherche, l’éducation et la communication scientifiques de manière équitable, inclusive et durable.
Énoncé de valeurs
La CASCA défend les valeurs fondamentales suivantes :
- La curiosité, intégrité et impact scientifiques
- L’inclusion, équité et accessibilité en recherche et en éducation
- Le réconciliation avec les Peuples Autochtones
- Le développement durable
La CASCA s’efforce de mener sa mission conformément à ses valeurs fondamentales.
The Long Range Plan for Canadian Astronomy
Starting in 1998, CASCA has initiated and sponsored the development of a Long Range Plan (LRP) for Canadian Astronomy. The first LRP, “The Origins of Structure in the Universe“, was released in May 2000 in collaboration with NRC and NSERC. The second LRP, “Unveiling the Cosmos: A Vision for Canadian Astronomy“, was released in February 2011 in collaboration with ACURA, NSERC, NRC, CSA, and CFI. The Coalition for Canadian Astronomy, which brings together representatives from CASCA, academia (through ACURA) and Industry, was formed in 2000 and has worked since with the goal of securing federal funding to support the projects endorsed by the LPR. If you would like more information or to become involved, get in touch with one of the Coalition Co-Chairs or the CASCA Board.
Planning for LRP2020 is currently underway.
Contribution to Public Outreach
CASCA is committed to Education and Public Outreach. To learn more, please contact our EPO committee. CASCA’s contributions to the International Year of Astronomy and to public outreach have recently been by a certificate of appreciation from the IAU, who also recognized CASCA for endorsing the Washington Charter for Communicating with the Public.