The NA-ROAD office represents a broad geographic region (the United States and U.S. Territories, Canada, Mexico, Greenland, and island nations of the Caribbean). Within that region there are many excellent efforts and initiatives taking place that are related to, or directly address, the NA-ROAD goals and objectives. The NA-ROAD will develop and implement its own efforts and initiatives, but we also want to recognize, and support, when possible, complementary efforts and opportunities in the North American region. To this end, we have identified three categories of projects that we will promote and/or support including a) OAD Sponsored Projects, b) NA-ROAD Endorsed Projects, and c) NA-ROAD projects.
OAD Sponsored Projects
These projects are those in the North American Region currently receiving funding directly from either the International Astronomical Union (IAU), or the IAU’s Office of Astronomy for Development. In addition, these projects have been reviewed by the NA-ROAD Governing Council to ensure alignment with our goals and values. For OAD Sponsored Projects, the NA-ROAD will provide:
- Recognition through the NA-ROAD website,
- Access to our network to promote project activities,
- Guidance on meeting the evaluation and reporting requirements as needed.
Current OAD Sponsored Projects:
CENCA Bridge
Beyond the Beach
NA-ROAD Endorsed Projects
These projects are located in (or are serving) the North American Region, and strongly align with the NA-ROAD Strategic Plan and values. However they are being implemented by an institution other than the NA-ROAD. These projects do not receive financial support or staff support from the NA-ROAD. In addition, the project must request NA-ROAD endorsement and be vetted by this Office to ensure adequate alignment. An Endorsed Project also agrees to provide updates on project-related activities as requested by the NA-ROAD. For NA-ROAD Endorsed Projects, the NA-ROAD will provide:
- Recognition through the NA-ROAD website,
- Access to our network to promote project activities,
- Guidance on meeting the evaluation and reporting requirements as needed.
Current NA-ROAD Endorsed Projects:
Zooniverse
NA-ROAD Projects
These projects are located in (or are serving) the North American Region, and strongly align with the NA-ROAD Strategic Plan and values. The NA-ROAD manages and implements these projects either by itself, or in some cases, in collaboration with other institutions. In addition, the project idea must be vetted and approved for adoption by this Office. Regular updates on project-related activities are also provided to the NA-ROAD Governing Council and Advisory Board. For NA-ROAD Projects, the NA-ROAD will provide:
- Recognition through the NA-ROAD website,
- Access to our network to promote project activities,
- Project design and implementation expertise,
- Identification of and securing the necessary resources to support the project, including, but not limited to, staff time, fund development, financial management services, and project consulting.
Current NA ROAD Projects:
Women and Girls in Astronomy Program
Accessible Astronomy