The Arab Astronomical Society (ArAS) was officially created during the constitutional assembly held in Marrakech (Morocco) on November 30, 2016, and legally recognized on May 15, 2017. ArAS is composed of a group of Arab researchers and students in the field of astrophysics who aim to develop research in this field in the Arab world (22 countries). ArAS is working on bridging the gap between the Arab astrophysicists in the Arab world and those around the world by organizing collaborative workshops and international scientific meetings, offering scholarships and developing graduate programs in astrophysics. Presently, the Society is working on establishing personal and material scientific infrastructure in the Arab world by training advanced undergraduate and graduate students in astrophysics and stimulating the building of new telescopes on the best sites in the Arab world. This will be accomplished through the hosting of specialized schools and conferences in astrophysics, international collaborations, facilitation of students’ and post-docs’ training in international research centres and universities, the establishment of prizes in astronomy to honour leading Arab scientists in astronomy and to motivate junior researchers to present notable works in astronomy. In this work, we present the on-going ArAS activities as well as future projects. ArAS is a young but energetic organization which is welcoming collaborations and partnership with other groups.

During the last few years, Thailand has seen a significant change in the way astronomical research and education is pursued in the country. The government has approved the establishment of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) which aims to develop not only astronomical research but also astronomy education at all levels, both in formal and informal education. A framework of national key projects exists which includes national facilities, national collaborative research networks, teacher training and public outreach programmes. Examples of these programmes will be presented in this paper.

Astronomy development in Thailand has improved significantly during the last few years. The government has approved the establishment of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT). Roles of NARIT in the development astronomical research and astronomy education in Thailand includes a national framework, national facilities, collaborative research networks, teacher training and public outreach programmes. The new 2.4-metre reflecting telescope will serve not only astronomy community in Thailand but also in Southeast Asia.