Sharjah astronomy body hosts workshop on exoplanets

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) at the University of Sharjah (UoS) organised a specialised workshop titled “Exploring Exoplanets” as part of its ongoing efforts to promote astronomical knowledge and raise public awareness about the latest space technologies. The workshop aimed to introduce participants to planets that orbit stars beyond our solar system, explore their various types, and explain the methods scientists use to discover and study them.

The workshop combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiments. The first day featured a lecture on exoplanets and their various discovery methods. Participants examined a database of discovered exoplanets and presented their research findings. On the second day, participants used specialised equipment to understand the method of detecting exoplanets by observing the dimming of a star’s light caused by a planet passing in front of it.

The workshop concluded with a special show at the Sharjah Planetarium, highlighting the locations of discovered exoplanets in our galaxy, as well as the Sharjah Star and the planet discovered orbiting it, which has been named “Barjeel.”

Earlier, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Director of the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), welcomed a high-level delegation from the UAE Space Agency during an official visit aimed at enhancing cooperation in the fields of space science, engineering, and computing.

The visit was organised in coordination with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies at the University of Sharjah (UoS), the Sharjah Smart Center for Climate Resilience, and the Research Outreach Department.

The visit featured a discussion session chaired by Prof. Al Naimiy, with the participation of leading academics and experts from both the Academy and the Agency.

The session explored opportunities for collaboration, the activation of existing agreements, and future initiatives to support research and advance the UAE’s vision in the field of space.

The discussion also focused on strengthening academic collaboration, particularly through offering internship opportunities, facilitating knowledge exchange, and developing academic programmes aligned with the UAE’s National Space Strategy.

Both parties explored opportunities to launch applied research projects that would contribute to the advancement of the UAE’s space sector. In addition, they emphasised the importance of supporting students and researchers through national initiatives aimed at empowering young talent and guiding them toward space-related disciplines.

This collaboration represents a model of integration between federal entities and academic institutions, enhancing the nation’s readiness to contribute to regional and global space initiatives, while supporting the leadership’s ambition to position the UAE as a global leader in space exploration, science, and technology.

During the visit, the Academy presented a brief overview of its key research and educational facilities, followed by a scientific show at the Sharjah Planetarium titled “Deen Alqayima.” The delegation also toured several facilities and laboratories at the University of Sharjah, where they were introduced to the latest technologies and research equipment that support an innovative environment and contribute to preparing a new generation of distinguished researchers and scientists.

Recently, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), an affiliate of the University of Sharjah (UoS), hosted a delegation from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to explore opportunities for joint scientific and academic cooperation, including the exchange of expertise in education and research, as well as providing internship opportunities for students.

Prof. Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, welcomed the delegation, emphasising the importance of collaboration with NASA in advancing the university’s efforts to integrate cutting-edge technological frameworks that enhance the educational and research experiences for both faculty members and students.

Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, emphasised that this collaboration will play a pivotal role in advancing research programmes, facilitating knowledge exchange, and driving progress in the fields of space science and astronomy.

Daniel Evans, Assistant Deputy Associate Administrator for Research at NASA's Science Mission Directorate, praised the significant role played by the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, emphasising that the cooperation between NASA and SAASST will contribute to enhancing research efforts in the region.

The visit also included a tour of the research laboratories and a special show at the Sharjah Planetarium.