oin us for a captivating evening with Dr Grazia Umana from the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF), as she takes us on a journey through the cosmos using some of the world’s most powerful radio telescopes — MeerKAT, MeerKAT+, and the upcoming Square Kilometre Array (SKA).

In celebration of Italian National Space Day, this public talk will highlight the exciting science behind these instruments, from pulsars and galaxies to cosmic mysteries yet to be uncovered. Dr Umana will also explore the growing collaboration between Italy and South Africa in radio astronomy, showcasing how international partnerships are shaping the future of space science.

12 November 2025 5:30 for 6:00 PM

University of Cape Town, Kramer Law Building, Lecture Theatre 2

Reserve your seat: https://radiomap2025.eventbrite.com

Whether you're a space enthusiast, student, or simply curious about the universe, this is an event not to be missed!

Radio Astronomy, Science and Technology, with MeerKAT, MeerKAT+ and SKA: Opportunities for Italy-South Africa Cooperation

Radio astronomy is not just about looking deeper into the Universe — it’s about connecting people, technologies, and nations in a shared quest for knowledge.Through the powerful synergy of science, innovation, and international collaboration, Italy and South Africa are building a bridge to the future of radio astronomy.

The Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) plays a leading role in the global development of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) — the world’s largest and most ambitious radio telescope. At the heart of this effort lies MeerKAT, South Africa’s remarkable SKA precursor, which already stands among the most advanced radio telescopes ever built.

This contribution provides an overview of the activities promoted by INAF within the framework of MeerKAT. The initiative covers both the scientific and technological dimensions of the project, fostering collaboration and innovation between Italy and South Africa.

Since 2020, INAF has been actively engaged in MeerKAT+, a major upgrade designed to extend MeerKAT’s scientific reach. Supported by European funding through Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), INAF will equip the MeerKAT telescope with 64 new high-frequency receivers (Band 5B) — an innovation that will open entirely new windows on the cosmos.

Crucially, the project is being realised through a deep partnership between INAF and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory — strengthening a long-standing collaboration that combines science, technology, and diplomacy.

Together, Italy and South Africa are paving the way toward a deeper scientific and technological partnership — one that will not only enhance MeerKAT’s performance but also strengthen both nations’ roles in shaping the future of radio astronomy in the SKA era.

Meet The Speaker! - Dr Grazia Umana

 Astrophysicist, Research Director at the INAF–Astrophysical Observatory of Catania

Dr Grazia Umana is a leading Italian radio astronomer and a key figure in international efforts to explore our Galaxy through the world’s most powerful radio telescopes. Currently serving on the Board of the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF), she has also directed the INAF Astrophysical Observatory of Catania and played major roles in shaping Italy’s participation in the global Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.

Her research focuses on the radio emission from evolved stars and the interaction between stars and planets—fields that shed light on the future of our own Solar System. Dr Umana has coordinated national and European research programmes (including ASI, FP7, and PNRR), and leads Italy’s participation in the MeerKAT Band 5B project in South Africa. She serves as Science Advisor to the SKA Council and as INAF’s representative on the MeerKAT+ Board, continuing to strengthen scientific bridges between Italy and South Africa.

Over her career, Dr Umana has delivered more than 50 invited talks worldwide and published over 250 scientific papers (H = 81). She has chaired several international working groups and committees for the SKA, ASKAP EMU, and the Australian Telescope Facility, helping to define the next generation of radio astronomy.

Her work combines visionary leadership with deep scientific insight—opening new windows on our Galaxy and inspiring international cooperation in the quest to understand the Universe.