The Latin American Astronomy and Astronautics Olympiad (OLAA) will return to Paraguay for its 18th edition in 2026. From 1 to 9 November, students and delegations from across Latin America will take part in competitive and educational activities. The Olympiad aims to promote regional cooperation and integration through scientific knowledge and cultural exchange. Activities will take place at different venues across the country, including Asunción, Atyrá and the Alto Paraná Department.
OLAA’s 2026 programme in Paraguay
The 2026 OLAA programme will begin on 1 November in Asunción. The capital city will welcome the participating delegations as they complete their accreditation. The following day, participants will attend the opening ceremony and planetarium testing. Afterwards, the delegations will travel to the city of Atyrá in the Cordillera Department. There, they will participate in rocketry workshops and individual and group theoretical examinations on 3 and 4 November.
On 5 November, the programme will continue with observational activities and practical tests. The following day, delegations will visit Itaipu Binacional, Saltos del Monday (Monday Falls) and the Hito de las Tres Fronteras (Three Borders Landmark) in Alto Paraná.
Finally, Atyrá will host scientific activities, integration events and a Latin American celebration on 7 November. The Olympiad will return to Asunción on 8 November for the awards and closing ceremonies. The programme will conclude on 9 November with a farewell to the participating delegations.
From Uruguay to Latin America
The Latin American Astronomy and Astronautics Olympiad was founded in Montevideo, Uruguay, on 10 October 2008. Representatives from Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Uruguay and Mexico participated in the founding meeting. The competition was designed to promote cultural integration, scientific cooperation and interest in astronomy among young people in the region.
In 2009, the International Year of Astronomy, Brazil hosted the competition’s inaugural edition. Since then, the event has created opportunities for scientific exchange and collaboration among Latin American students and educators. Over the years, participants have explored astronomy, astrophysics and astronautics through academic challenges and cultural activities.
OLAA’s second edition in Paraguay
Different countries across the region have hosted the competition since its creation. In October 2018, Paraguay hosted the 10th edition of the OLAA in Ayolas, a city in the southern part of the country. The event was recognised as being of Scientific Interest by Paraguay’s National Council for Science and Technology (CONACYT).
Paraguay will host the OLAA for a second time in 2026. For its 18th edition, the event will offer another opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts to exchange their knowledge and experiences while sharing their interest in astronomy and science.
For further information about the event, visit the OLAA Paraguay website or OLAA’s Instagram account.
