Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
By utilising cutting-edge technology, Sharjah Academy For Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) is observing and studying major astronomical events, including meteor showers, planetary oppositions, and lunar eclipses.
SAASST plays a vital role in advancing global astronomical research and collaboration, by collecting high-resolution data.
In statements to Aletihad, the Academy said that their focus in 2025 includes meteor showers like the Eta Aquariids (May 6-7), Perseids (August 11-12), and Geminids (December 13-14), contributing valuable data to the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network (UAEMMN) and Space Situational Awareness (SSA) research. The oppositions of Mars (January 16) and Uranus (November 21) will enable high-resolution imaging and detailed atmospheric studies.
Events like the Venus-Saturn conjunction (January 20) and Venus-Jupiter conjunction (August 12) will allow SAASST to analyse celestial mechanics and engage the public with stargazing activities.
The total lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025, will aid in atmospheric studies by analysing Earth's atmospheric composition and serve as a model for exoplanet research.
In addition, the Equinoxes (March 20 & September 22) and Solstices (June 21 & December 21) will contribute to research in celestial navigation and seasonal changes in Earth's orbit.
In 2025, SAASST will contribute to global science by sharing high-res data, collaborating internationally, along with hosting events around key astronomical events.
The Academy will use advanced telescopes, offer public observation nights, as well as live-stream events like the Total Lunar Eclipse to support research.
The data will inform studies on exoplanets and contribute to an annual Astronomical Calendar.
SAASST's advanced technology, including high-res telescopes, CCD cameras, and spectrographs, will enhance the study of major 2025 events like eclipses and planetary oppositions.
The Sharjah Lunar Impact Observatory will track meteorite impacts, while Sharjah Sat-1 will monitor solar flares in X-rays.
Tools like the Decametric Radio Telescope and ionosonde will study solar activity's impact on Earth, and the Planetarium will provide immersive simulations to educate the public.
SAASST said that it works closely with local and international space agencies, including the UAE Space Agency, in order to boost research during key astronomical events.
One major initiative is the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network, tracking meteor activity across the UAE using 17 cameras.
In 2025, as the Sun peaks in activity with more sunspots and solar flares, SAASST will make significant strides in space science.
The Decametric Radio Telescope will monitor solar radio signals, while the Space Weather Lab will study how solar flares affect Earth's atmosphere.
Sharjah's location allows SAASST to observe both hemispheres.
In spite of light pollution, the academy's observatories and the Maleiha Desert offer ideal stargazing spots for public events.
SAASST will use advanced telescopes and CCD cameras to capture meteoroid impacts and study the Moon's surface.
Spectrographs like UVEX will be used to study Earth's atmosphere, gathering data on the Moon's surface, impact rates, as well as atmospheric changes.
SAASST will use 2025's astronomical events to enhance education, research, and public engagement.
The academy will also collaborate with regional and Arab space communities to strengthen space science across the Arab world.
Furthermore, it plans to explore and expand the Sharjah-Sat Series by launching a number of CubeSats, building on the success of Sharjah-Sat-1, launched in January 2023, and the planned launch of Sharjah-Sat-2 in 2025.
