Liberian Astronomical Society

About LAS

Building astronomy access where opportunity has been limited.

LAS is a youth-led astronomy and STEM initiative working to make science learning, public engagement and participation in real astronomy more accessible across Liberia.

Our story

It began with a simple question: why not Liberia?

The Liberian Astronomical Society was founded on 12 April 2025 by Daniel Ayorinde Obajemu and a group of young people who wanted astronomy to become visible, understandable and participatory in Liberia.

The need was clear. Many students had curiosity about space but limited access to astronomy lessons, mentors, observing tools or structured pathways into the field. LAS began by creating the opportunities it could: introductory classes, school outreach, citizen-science participation and astrophotography training.

The activity record now includes campus teaching, outreach in Kakata, Buchanan, Paynesville and Central Monrovia, IASC participation certificates and image-processing projects. LAS is an initiative in growth; this website does not claim a legal nonprofit status that has not yet been completed.

Mission

Make astronomy accessible through education, participation and collaboration.

Vision

A Liberia where young people can learn, contribute and lead in astronomy and space science.

How we work

Principles that keep the mission grounded.

01

Access before prestige

We begin with clear explanations, practical opportunities and welcoming spaces for learners at every starting point.

02

Evidence over exaggeration

We communicate our work accurately, distinguish partnerships from affiliations and report the progress we can support.

03

Youth as contributors

Young people are not only audiences. They can analyze data, organize programs, communicate science and shape institutions.

04

Collaboration multiplies impact

Schools, educators, communities and international partners each bring knowledge that makes the work stronger.

Milestones

Early progress, built step by step.

  1. LAS is founded

    A youth-led astronomy community begins in Monrovia.

  2. Practical astronomy begins

    Participants receive IASC certificates and complete astronomical image-processing training.

  3. Outreach expands

    School engagement reaches Montserrado, Margibi and Grand Bassa counties.

  4. More classrooms take part

    Activities continue in Paynesville and Central Monrovia, including visits to two named schools.

People behind the work

Youth-led, advisor-supported and partnership-driven.

LAS brings together student leaders, educators and citizen-science collaborators. The organization's identity is larger than any one person, so leadership profiles sit within the team rather than dominating the public story.

Meet the team