**Iran has once again won the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) for the second consecutive year

**

 Mumbai, India – The remarkable performance of Iran's student team at the 18th Edition International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2025) has once again brought great honor to the country. This competition, held from August 12 to 21, 2025 (21 to 30 Mordad 1404) in Mumbai, was the largest in the history of the IOAA, showcasing a magnificent display of science, collaboration, and international solidarity with the participation of 288 students from 64 countries.

 

The national team of the Islamic Republic of Iran, consisting of Hossein Soltani, Heyrbad Foudazi, Hossein Masumi, Arshia Mirshamsi Kakhki, and Ali Naderi Lordjani, under the scientific guidance of Dr. Hossein Haghi and Mohammad Hossein Ghasempour, achieved first place for the second consecutive year by winning five gold medals. This success repeats the honor of last year's achievement in Brazil. This edition of the Olympiad was organized by the Homi Bhabha Center for Science Education (HBCSE), affiliated with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). The opening ceremony took place at the Global Convention Center in Jio, featuring unique aspects such as a record participation of 64 countries, including 12 newcomers like France, Australia, Palestine, and Turkmenistan, as well as the highest number of female participants in IOAA history, totaling 57.

 

Participants competed in four main categories:

- Theoretical exams to assess scientific concepts

- Analysis of astronomical data

- Observational tests using specialized instruments

- Team competitions to solve complex problems

 

Additionally, sky observation sessions were held at the Nehru Planetarium, providing a practical and inspiring experience for the participants.

 

At the conclusion of the competitions, the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Mumbai, along with the Iranian Cultural House in Mumbai proudly welcomed the Iranian national team. Mr. Hassan Mohseni-Fard consul general of iran Mumbai and Mohammad Reza Fazel Director Iran Culture House congratulated the team on their success and presented gifts, emphasizing the key role of Iranian youth in global scientific fields. The next International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics will be hosted by Vietnam in 2026. With this outstanding performance, Iran has not only solidified its scientific standing but has also become an inspiring model for future generations of scholars worldwide.