Bringing the Universe
to Society
Bringing the Universe closer to society
through astronomy communication
About us
The Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal (CAPjournal) is the only fully open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to astronomy communication, bridging the gap between astronomy communicators, researchers in astronomy communication, trainers and astronomer communicators.
With nearly 20 years of serving the astronomy communication community, and more than 300 articles spanning the broad spectrum of communication practices, CAPjournal helps create an environment of learning across the field that centres both research and practice.
Our Mission
Astronomy appeals to the humanity within each of us, inspiring us and sparking curiosity; in this way, it is an effective way of inviting the public into scientific content and processes. Thus, the public communication of astronomy provides an important link between the scientific astronomical community and society, and creates opportunities for individuals to engage with STEM.
We believe that the main task of astronomy communication is to facilitate the integration of society with the practice of astronomy (and science in general) and improve scientific outcomes worldwide. CAPjournal works toward this goal by providing open-access resources for professional development and training, stimulating discussion and professionalisation of the field, establishing priorities and norms, and sharing experiences, challenges, and lessons learned.
In recognition that astronomy (science) communication is a cornerstone activity of the scientific enterprise, CAPjournal aims to professionalise the field of astronomy communication, not only through our publications, but also through our editorial process, as well. CAPjournal provides extensive support for all authors, regardless of familiarity with the academic publishing process, language, or comfort level with writing in English. Through this practice, we amplify the ideas and insights of those who may have been previously excluded from contributing to the field. With our dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, we ensure that astronomy communicators worldwide have access to culturally relevant material, and as a result, their communities have more positive experiences with science.
CAPjournal History
The Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal is operated by the International Astronomical Union Office for Astronomy Outreach (IAU OAO) in collaboration with IAU Commission C2, and is a core activity of the OAO. As a result of a 2007 study performed by the (now extinct) Commission C2 Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal Working Group assessing the necessity of a periodical focused on astronomy communication, outreach, and engagement, CAPjournal was created to address the specific needs of the astronomy communication community.
Our scope spans a broad range of topics, including, but not limited to, planetariums, museums, evaluation techniques, inclusive and accessible astronomy, and storytelling. A full accounting of the breadth of CAPjournal’s repertoire is evident by our past articles and issues, as well as our list of keywords.
Our Team
Meet Our Editors
Go behind the scenes to meet the dedicated editors behind the Communicating Astronomy with the Public Journal
The members of the CAPjournal Editorial Board play a vital role in supporting our authors through the publication process. With their expertise, our Editors work alongside authors to produce academic works that align with CAPjournal's mission of professionalising astronomy communication through accessible and inclusive processes. Learn more about CAPjournal's Editorial Board below
Meet Our Editors