Welcome to 5thInternational Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics
for Juniors
Event Starts In
150
Days
2
Hours
6
Minutes
56
Seconds
Official
Welcome Message
Official Documents
IOAA-jr 2026 Circular
1st Circular - IOAA-jr 2026
The first official circular for the 5th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors, containing essential information about the event schedule, registration process, venue details, and participation guidelines.
Download the complete circular for offline reference
2nd Circular - Coming Soon
The second circular will be published in the coming months with updated information about the competition schedule, accommodation details, and registration deadlines.
3rd Circular - Coming Soon
The third and final circular will contain the complete competition schedule, detailed venue information, and all final arrangements for participating teams.
Event Timeline
Important Dates
Registration Dates
Pre-registration opens
10th February 2026
Start of pre-registration period for participating countries
Pre-registration closes
20th March 2026
Deadline for pre-registration submission
Main Registration opens
20th April 2026
Start of main registration with detailed team information
Main Registration closes
30th June 2026
Final deadline for complete registration and payment
Event Dates
Opening Ceremony of IOAA-jr 2026
2nd November 2026
•09.30 AM - 12.00 PM
Official opening ceremony of the 5th IOAA-jr competition
Closing Ceremony of IOAA-jr 2026
8th November 2026
•10.00 AM - 12.00 PM
Award ceremony and official closing of the competition
Event Highlights
Featured Video
Get a glimpse of what awaits you at IOAA-jr 2026
About the Event
5th IOAA-jr Logo
Elements of the Logo
Elephant Head Outline
ลายเส้นรูปหัวช้าง
The elephant represents the national symbol of Thailand, reflecting the country's identity. It also connects to the Thai expression for the galaxy, "Milky Way," which is traditionally called "Tang Chang Puak" (The White Elephant's Path).
Ursa Major Constellation
กลุ่มดาวหมีใหญ่ (Ursa Major)
The Ursa Major constellation—traditionally known in Thailand as the 'Chang' (Elephant) or 'Chakhe' (Crocodile)—serves as a vital astronomical marker for locating the North Star (Polaris). Notably, the star 47 Ursae Majoris has been officially assigned the common name 'Chalawan,' making it the first star name of Thai origin recognized internationally. It is orbited by two exoplanets, 'Taphao Kaew' and 'Taphao Thong,' both of which are named after characters from the classic Thai folktale, Krai Thong.
The Sun
พระอาทิตย์
Ubon Ratchathani is renowned as the easternmost province of Thailand, where the first sunrise of the country can be seen. The rising sun symbolizes this geographical uniqueness of the host city.
Lotus with Five Petals
ดอกบัว 5 กลีบ
The lotus is the symbolic flower of Ubon Ratchathani province and Ubon Ratchathani University, the co-host competition. The closed lotus bud emerging from the water symbolizes virtue, faith, and the energy of bright, inquisitive, and eager-to-learn youth who are ready to grow and develop. The five lotus petals represent the 5th IOAA-jr competition.
Symbolism Reflected in the Logo
Flame Shape and Orange Tone
เปลวไฟและโทนสีส้ม
The logo's shape does not only represent an elephant but is also designed to resemble a flickering flame. Its flowing lines and warm color palette evoke the glow of candlelight. Since Ubon Ratchathani is renowned for its annual Candle Festival, this design bridges local identity with a deeper symbolic meaning of wisdom and the light of Dharma.
The Flowing Line (River Motif)
เส้นโค้งสายน้ำ
The curved line across the logo represents the Mun and Mekong Rivers, flowing through Ubon Ratchathani. It also reflects the natural border between Thailand and Laos in the Lower Isan region. This river element symbolizes connection and unity, just as the competition fosters friendship and knowledge exchange among young people worldwide.
Event Venues
Accommodation & Venues
Discover the recommended hotels and venues for IOAA-jr 2026 participants.
Centra Ubon
A modern hotel located in the heart of Ubon Ratchathani, offering comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the city's attractions.
Tohsang Heritage Khongjiam
A heritage resort offering a unique cultural experience with traditional Thai architecture and beautiful riverside views along the Mekong River.
Sirindhorn Dam
A scenic dam and reservoir area offering accommodation facilities with beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Cultural Experience
Field Trip Destinations
Explore the cultural and natural wonders of Ubon Ratchathani province during the IOAA-jr 2026 field trips.
Partners & Organizers
Organized By
