Honorary Members

Honorary Members of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) are individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of astronomical research and culture in their country but who are not professional astronomers and therefore do not qualify for Individual Membership.

This category of membership, introduced at the XXX General Assembly in 2018 in Vienna, Austria, recognises exceptional support for astronomy through leadership, education, public outreach, or institutional development.

Honorary Members are nominated by IAU National Members, who are invited to submit candidatures for Honorary Members by 1st October of the year preceding a General Assembly, and admitted by the Executive Committee in accordance with the IAU Working Rules.

The list of Honorary Members accepted in 2024 is available here.
The list of Honorary Members accepted in 2021 is available here.
The list of Honorary Members accepted in 2018 is available here.