The Astronomical Observatory of Honduras: A Project of International Cooperation

Abstract

The history, current situation and achievements in Astronomy and Astrophysics as academicals fields of the National Autonomous University of Honduras is described. The first activity was the Project “An Astronomical Observatory for Central America: a realistic way of strengthening basic space science in developing countries”, because it is the frame incorporating all the initial work for the development of the different academic activities, on the basis of which the Central American Suyapa Astronomical Observatory was brought forward in a project of permanent international cooperation. The associated education, research and outreach activities are described to illustrate the well-organized model of this academic unit with international recognition. Finally we comment on the regional and international scope of this Central American Astronomy Project in Honduras.