Today's Edition
SARA AL ZAABI (ALETIHAD)
World Space Week is more than a global celebration of humanity’s journey into the cosmos; it is an opportunity to inspire the youth to set their sights beyond the horizon.
Educational institutions and astronomy groups in the UAE are making the most of this window to encourage the next generation to explore the extraordinary wonders of science, technology, and the outer space.
Observed from October 4 to 10 around the world, this year’s space week explores humanity’s journey toward making space a habitat, reflecting on both the challenges and innovations that make this vision possible.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, described space exploration as “one of the most important areas of innovation and scientific development in our modern era”.
“Space is no longer just a distant dream; it has become an open field of progress, where space science contributes to communications, navigation, weather, the environment, and even medicine, education, and military technologies,” Al Jarwan said in an interview with Aletihad.
Countries that invest in space — like the UAE — are building a more prosperous future for their generations, he said.
“[Such national programmes] encourage scientific research and technology, stimulate young minds, and promote a culture of exploration and knowledge,” Al Jarwan added.
The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) is one of the UAE institutions that aim to instil a culture of curiosity and discovery in the youth.
For this week, the academy has organised expert-led lectures, hands-on workshops, and immersive planetarium shows. Interactive stations, such as “Imagine Other Worlds” and “Time Capsule”, simplify scientific concepts and offer a relatable view of space science and its impact on life on Earth.
“Our programmes serve as a strategic platform for preparing a generation capable of leading future space projects and consolidating the UAE’s position as a leading force in this vital field. Such events are an investment in minds and building the future,” SAASST said in a statement to Aletihad.
“Through interactive experiences and scientific activities, we instil in students the motivation to choose advanced specialisations in space sciences and astronomy, giving them a sense of being active partners in shaping a bright scientific future for their nation.”
SAASST is currently working on several projects, ranging from CubeSat development to ionosphere studies, high-energy astrophysics, as well as optical and radio observations.
"The technologies we use are state-of-the-art devices that contribute to the research field in spreading knowledge and raising public awareness," it said.
The academy plans to broaden its community outreach through new workshops and interactive exhibitions focused on astronomy and space sciences.
