Sharjah drive tracks asteroids near the Earth
This marks the first dedicated near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) observation campaign conducted through the Sharjah Astronomical Observatory.
It aims to support astronomical research, enhance observational and analytical capabilities, and contribute to a better understanding of the orbital and physical characteristics of near-Earth asteroids.
The campaign covered the key concepts involved in observing near-Earth asteroids, focusing on their orbital and physical characteristics. It emphasised the importance of monitoring, tracking, and studying these asteroids.
Discussions also addressed global asteroid observation networks, including the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN), which plays a crucial role in promoting global collaboration for monitoring celestial bodies.
The campaign introduced internationally recognised observatories and telescopes, highlighting their advanced technical specifications, and explored the specialised software used for tracking and analysing asteroids.
During the campaign, participants engaged in hands-on activities, recording precise orbital and photometric data of the asteroid using advanced astronomical systems to track its motion and analyse its trajectory across the sky.
This experience contributed to expanding participants' knowledge and capabilities in the field, enhancing their understanding of celestial bodies, and the orbital and physical characteristics of near-Earth asteroids.
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
SHARJAH: As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance research and practical applications in asteroid observation, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), affiliated with the University of Sharjah (UoS), organised a specialised observation campaign to track and analyse the near-Earth asteroids '2018 RC2' and 'Flora 8.'
This marks the first dedicated near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) observation campaign conducted through the Sharjah Astronomical Observatory.
It aims to support astronomical research, enhance observational and analytical capabilities, and contribute to a better understanding of the orbital and physical characteristics of near-Earth asteroids.
The campaign covered the key concepts involved in observing near-Earth asteroids, focusing on their orbital and physical characteristics. It emphasised the importance of monitoring, tracking, and studying these asteroids.
Discussions also addressed global asteroid observation networks, including the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN), which plays a crucial role in promoting global collaboration for monitoring celestial bodies.
The campaign introduced internationally recognised observatories and telescopes, highlighting their advanced technical specifications, and explored the specialised software used for tracking and analysing asteroids.
During the campaign, participants engaged in hands-on activities, recording precise orbital and photometric data of the asteroid using advanced astronomical systems to track its motion and analyse its trajectory across the sky.
This experience contributed to expanding participants' knowledge and capabilities in the field, enhancing their understanding of celestial bodies, and the orbital and physical characteristics of near-Earth asteroids.
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The honouring ceremony was attended by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, along with several distinguished guests, including Mansour Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom; Sheikh Khalid bin Saud Al Qasimi, Deputy Ambassador of the UAE to the UK; Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock; Dr Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, Chairman of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority; Dr Muhadditha Al Hashimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Education Academy; as well as a number of officials from government entities and higher education institutions in the Emirate of Sharjah. Representing the British side, the ceremony was attended by Lord David Fursden, His Majesty's Representative in Devon; Councillor Ann Jobson, Lord Mayor of Exeter; Sir Michael Barber, Honorary Chancellor of the University of Exeter; Dr Lisa Roberts, Chancellor of the University of Exeter; along with several officials from the University of Exeter.
