For the first time in five years, Belarusian team took part in the XVIII International Olympiad in Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2025) in Mumbai, India. This significant event gathered more than 300 talented schoolchildren from 64 countries and it was a true test of knowledge, analytical thinking and love for the starry sky.
Participation in the IOAA is an opportunity to demonstrate a high level of training, a deep understanding of astronomy as a science and the ability to solve complex problems requiring an interdisciplinary approach. The Olympiad traditionally includes theoretical, practical and observational rounds, covering a wide range of topics from celestial mechanics to astrophysics and cosmology.
Belarusian team did brilliantly well, winning silver and bronze medals, and a commendation for high achievements.
*The silver medal was won by a student of Lyceum No. 1 named after Academician Y.M. Ostrovsky of Grodno Yan Terekhov. Despite the fact that astronomy in Belarusian schools is studied only in grade 11, Yan independently mastered the subject in the 10th and successfully applied his knowledge at the international competition. His high level of preparation and analytical skills allowed him to become one of the best participants.
* Polina Sologub, a graduate of Secondary School No. 8 in Slutsk, received a bronze medal. Her stable and confident performances at all stages of the Olympiad became a well-deserved recognition of her hard work and scientific potential.
* Varvara Kolesneva, a graduate of the Lyceum of the Belarusian-Russian University named after L.E. Manevich was awarded special recognition. She was noted with a commendation for high achievements and high-quality completion of tasks.
Congratulations to our young astronomers on their outstanding result! Your dedication, perseverance and love for science inspire and raise the prestige of Belarusian education in the international arena.
Special thanks to the team leaders who put significant effort into training the participants:
*Kazimir Znosko, Associate Professor at the Department of Theoretical Physics and Heat Engineering of the Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, PhD in Physics and Mathematics;
*Alexander Spiridonov, Associate Professor at the Department of Physics and Aerospace Technologies of the Faculty of Radiophysics and Computer Technologies of BSU, PhD in Physics and Mathematics.
Your professionalism, dedication and pedagogical skills were key factors in the success of our team.
Participation in IOAA 2025 is an important step in the development of astronomy education in Belarus. We are confident that these victories will be the start of new discoveries, scientific achievements and international recognition of our talented schoolchildren.