The conference "Celestial Crossroads: Encounters, Intersections, and Interactions," which explores the intersection of astronomy and history, is being attended by 45 academics from 16 countries. The conference will conclude on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Co-organized by Yıldız Technical University (YTÜ) and the Sophia Centre at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, the event is being held in the Otağ-ı Hümayun building, which reflects the historic atmosphere of our Davutpaşa Campus. The conference examines the political, religious, and social implications of astronomy and astrology from ancient times to the present. 45 academics from 16 countries 

As part of the conference, 45 academics from 16 countries—spanning from the United States to Europe, and from Asia to the Middle East—are gathering at YTÜ. The conference brings together experts from universities and research institutions in the United States, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, China, Iran, Turkey, Russia, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Sweden, and Jordan. 

Topics to be explored in detail include the roles of those interested in astrology within the Ottoman and Islamic civilizations’ court hierarchies, the role of astrology in interpreting historical events, how statesmen utilized celestial movements when making strategic decisions, and the traces of astronomical symbolism across various cultures.

In addition, a special tour covering the Bosphorus Strait will be organized for conference guests, followed by a technical study tour focused on the Mesopotamian region.

The conference, which examines the deep connection between human history and the sky from a multidisciplinary perspective, will conclude on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.