Sensational Achievement for Bulgaria: Our Students Return with a Historic Record from the International Astronomy Olympiad

The Bulgarian flag proudly waved in India after our students achieved an unprecedented success at the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA). The team is returning to their homeland with four medals — three gold and one silver — as well as an honorable mention, which the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) has defined as our country"s best performance in the history of the prestigious competition.

This year, the Olympiad gathered over 280 talented students from 63 countries, all united by their passion for the stars and the Universe. Despite the extremely strong competition, the Bulgarian representatives managed to shine with their knowledge and skills, confirming Bulgaria"s reputation as a country with a tradition in the exact sciences.

Gold Medalists:

  • Svetoslav Arabov - 9th grade, Mathematics High School (MG), Varna
  • Elena Yordanova - 11th grade, MG, Ruse
  • Petar Popov - 11th grade, Natural Sciences and Mathematics High School, Gotse Delchev

Silver Medal and Honorable Mention:

  • Lora Lukmanova - 12th grade, Sofia High School of Mathematics (SMG), silver medal
  • Atanas Mitrev - 11th grade, Foreign Language High School, Kardzhali, honorable mention

The team leaders were the established specialists Nikola Karavasilev and Stefan Ivanov from the Union of Astronomers in Bulgaria, whose expertise and guidance were of key importance for the outstanding performance of the young talents. Their efforts and dedication helped the Bulgarian team achieve this historic result, which will remain in the annals of national education. The triumph in India is a reason for pride for the entire nation and an inspiration for future generations of young scientists.