2024 IOAA Report: Jiahong Yu
This had been one of the most unique experiences I’ve ever been two. Getting to meet some of the smartest people of this generation can always feel daunting, as you are placed evenly or below in terms of knowledge, which could feel quite awkward. But one must observe that only by being with people of equal or greater would inspire growth inside; Motivation doesn’t come out of thin air, it has a source, and this event had been one. Before the contests I got to experience star gazing like never before, the town was far from the city thus resulting in little to no light pollution, which is quite rare in the modern world. Pointing out the constellations with people from different origins was definitely a strong point. Talking about astrophysics pretty much all day for the duration devices was taken away took my studying efficiency toanother level. It was most likely my most productive period of time during this year.
To future participants. I would recommend printing out lots of notes, since devices will be confiscated for the duration of the contest, (about 6 days). A book or anything that will keep you busy studying for this period would be ideal. Try to get familiar with operating a telescope. The contests are long but will go by quickly because solving questions is fun. Next year’s IOAA will be in Mumbai.
Here is a list of my recommended items to bring: Printed past papers, books, star charts (one specific on the night of the observation round (19° 4’ 34” N and 72° 52’ 39” E, date is in Aug 2025), and one general for the planetarium round, try to include all constellation and designations of stars and magnitude for the named ones), a summary sheet written by you (reading another’s notes is far less effective than reading your own).
Very diehard equipment (only bring if you are familiar with its operation, but you should be):
An equatorial mount and reflecting telescope with a finder scope (for observing objects such as Jupiter and its major moons), camera which supports long exposure times (10-30s).
My understanding was entirely brought to a new level through these short days. Naming every single significant crater and seas on the moon. As well as getting things such as planks equation and many constants engrained into my mind. Next year if I am on the team again, I want a medal lol.
