Latest news with #Hinai
Muscat Daily
11-05-2025
- Science
- Muscat Daily
Sunspot 11 times larger than earth spotted from Oman
Muscat – Astronomers in Oman have observed the largest sunspot of 2025, capturing rare images of the massive dark patch on the Sun's surface, which measures more than 11 times the size of Earth. The sighting was made by the Oman Society for Astronomy and Space (OSAS) on the morning of May 8 using specialised telescopic equipment positioned in the skies over Muscat. Identified as Sunspot 4079, the phenomenon is part of the heightened solar activity associated with Solar Cycle 25, the current phase in the Sun's 11-year magnetic cycle. 'This sunspot represents one of the largest phenomena we have documented in the current solar cycle,' said Wisal bint Salim al Hinai, Deputy Head of the Community Outreach Committee at OSAS. 'Capturing it from Oman is a remarkable scientific achievement that highlights our ongoing efforts to monitor space phenomena that directly impact Earth.' Sunspots are regions of intense magnetic activity that appear darker because they are cooler than their surroundings. Sunspot 4079 offers astronomers important clues about solar flares and coronal mass ejections – bursts of solar energy that can interfere with satellite communications, GPS systems, and power grids on Earth. According to Hinai, the observation helps scientists better understand the potential risks of solar storms. The latest surge in solar activity has already led to several disruptions. In February, the Sun released an X-class solar flare, followed by a coronal mass ejection that triggered geomagnetic storms in April. These storms lit up skies with auroras in unusual latitudes and disrupted radio communications. Solar Cycle 25, which began in December 2019, has exceeded earlier forecasts in terms of intensity.
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Muscat to host global energy regulators' meet for first time in ME
Muscat – Oman will host the annual Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA) conference for the first time in the Middle East underlining the country's growing role in shaping global energy regulation. Organised by Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR), the event will take place in Muscat on May 5 and 6. More than 250 international experts, representatives of ERRA member organisations, academics and specialists from within and outside Oman are expected to attend. ERRA is an international organisation that promotes regulatory excellence in the energy sector. It comprises 47 member organisations from 43 countries across five continents and plays a key role in strengthening regulatory frameworks and institutional performance globally. The conference comes as Oman accelerates its transition towards renewable energy and sustainable development. It also marks 20 years since the restructuring of the country's electricity sector and establishment of APSR. Dr Mansour Talib al Hinai, Chairman of APSR, said the event is an opportunity to highlight Oman's efforts to promote clean energy and enhance its investment climate. 'This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises sustainability, innovation and energy diversification,' he said. Hinai added that the conference would serve as 'a high-level international platform for exchanging expertise and discussing the latest developments in energy regulation'. It will also 'enhance cooperation between member states and position the sultanate as a regional leader working towards a sustainable, innovation-driven economy'. The two-day event will include dialogue sessions, workshops and bilateral meetings focused on improving regulatory systems, attracting renewable energy investment and assessing the impact of emerging technologies on the energy sector. Hosting the ERRA conference reflects Oman's commitment to building a resilient, knowledge-based economy and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
