Latest news with #OmanAstronomicalSociety
Times of Oman
27-07-2025
- Science
- Times of Oman
Astronomical landscape in Oman: Towards a renewed community culture and scientific vision
Muscat — The Sultanate of Oman is home to numerous astronomical observatories dedicated to studying celestial phenomena and promoting astronomical knowledge. Among them is Al Saa'a 'the clock Observatory in Muscat Governorate, used for studying the movement of planets and stars and serving as an educational center for students and astronomy enthusiasts. Given the importance of this field, Oman Astronomical Society plays crucial roles in enhancing astronomical awareness. These include education and outreach, with the Society offering regular lectures and workshops on various astronomical topics, organizing events such as astronomical observation nights, and fostering scientific research. The Society encourages scientific research in astronomy and helps provide necessary resources for researchers and interested individuals. Its roles also include collaborating with educational institutions, working with schools and universities to enhance astronomy-related curricula, participating in global events like "World Space Week," and publishing astronomical materials, which serve as educational resources for enthusiasts. Astronomy has long received widespread attention from Omanis, playing a pivotal role in daily life. Through it, they organized their affairs, including travel, agriculture, and fishing. For instance, to divide falaj water during the day, they developed the "solar sundial" system, locally known as "Al-Lamd." This system relies on the movement of the shadow of a gnomon (made of iron, wood, or stone) from sunrise to sunset, serving as a timekeeper for farmers' shares of falaj water during the day. This was called "day lecture," distinguishing it from "night lecture," which always referred to using stars to complete the water distribution process in the evening. These stars are known among farmers, numbering around 24 in some wilayats and 26 in others, with this number sometimes increasing in exceptional cases. Examples of these stars include Al-Sarrah Al-Oula, Al-Sarrah Al-Thaniya, Al-Kawi, Aldebaran, Al-Miyathib, Al-Dhulmi, and others. To ensure accuracy in water distribution, farmers identified the star "Al-Munsif," whose appearance signals the halfway point of the "athar," the unit used for dividing falaj water, equivalent to approximately half an hour. The terraced agriculture in mountainous regions like Al Jabal Al Akhdar is a testament to the optimal utilization of solar radiation angles, contributing to the diversity of crops based on pre-determined measurements. In the maritime domain, Omanis were renowned as ship captains. Ahmed bin Majid Al Saadi and Nasser bin Ali Al Khadhouri are just two examples among thousands of sailors and navigators who meticulously documented their knowledge of routes, stars, and seasons for fishing and travel. They used stars as guides in the darkness of the sea and as timings for travel and fishing seasons. They also understood "sea strikes," a term used in Omani and Gulf popular culture to describe violent or sudden marine phenomena that cause disturbances in sea waters, such as strong waves, powerful currents, or sea storms. Sailors would not venture into the sea for travel or fishing during these times, which they identified by the rising or setting of certain stars. Among the most important "strikes" known to ancient Omanis is "Dharbat Al-Ahaimar," a star with a reddish hue. This leads to disagreement about the exact identity of this star; some consider "Al-Ahaimar" to be the star "Antares" in the constellation Scorpius, while others believe it is "Arcturus" in the constellation Boötes, both of which rise at the same time. Other known strikes include "Dharbat Al-Shali," which is the 90th strike of the third hundred in the "Hisbat Al-Durour" (calculation of periods), and is considered the strongest and most violent among known strikes, lasting between four and five days. Furthermore, the strikes of "Hawitaim," "Al-Lakidhib," and "Al-Kawi" are also dangerous for seafarers, which is why Omanis timed their seasons and knew their dates through the rising of stars. Dr. Ishaq Yahya Al Shuaili, Chairman of Oman Astronomical and Space Society, stated that "Omani proverbs have preserved heritage in a simplified way that carries both humor and knowledge. For instance, the beginning of the heat's decline is accompanied by the appearance of the star Suhail, hence the saying: 'If Suhail appears, water and night cool down,' and 'When Al-Kawi appears, cut and roast the wheat,' which refers to the ripening of wheat and the time for its harvest. These and other proverbs convey astronomical heritage to generations, enveloped in years of experience and ancestral knowledge." Al Shuaili believes that the concerted efforts among various educational institutions, civil society, and entities related to science and technology, by expanding the scope of scientific activities and contributions to promote progress in the astronomy and space sectors, will enhance astronomical and space awareness among the new generation in the Sultanate of Oman, in line with the goals of the "National Space Policy." This, he said, can be achieved by integrating and developing astronomy and space sciences into curricula to introduce students to the basics of astronomy and its applications, and to connect them with space exploration at an early stage. Introducing topics such as satellites, meteorites, space robots, and human exploration missions will stimulate scientific curiosity among students at various academic levels. He explained that practical and community activities play a significant role in embodying and clarifying theoretical concepts. These include scientific astronomical observation workshops, visits to astronomical observatories, astronomical scientific competitions, astronomical summer camps, and other activities that allow participants to fully experience astronomy. He also emphasized activating the role of scientific media through the production of educational documentaries and digital content that highlight the importance of astronomy and space in our daily lives, clarify the impact and role of space applications in various fields of life, and contribute to improving essential sectors such as agriculture, communications, navigation, and disaster management. Furthermore, partnerships with specialized scientific societies and institutions in astronomy and space contribute to enhancing community education, including partnerships with scientific research centers and Oman Astronomical and Space Society, to collaborate on various scientific initiatives for the public, such as observation nights and astronomical festivals in universities and schools, he added. Within the same context, Omar Hamdan Al Hosni, a board member of Oman Astronomical and Space Society, noted that "qualifying and training teachers in astronomy and space is a strategic investment in spreading space awareness throughout society, as teachers play a crucial role in transmitting a passion for science. Therefore, qualifying them in astronomy and space, and providing them with modern educational tools, would contribute to enhancing community awareness." Al Hosni pointed out that astronomy and space sciences are undergoing a significant global transformation, with an increasing number of countries entering this field, benefiting from technological development, especially through small satellites (CubeSats) and commercial space projects. From this perspective, the Sultanate of Oman can keep pace with these transformations by adopting the "National Space Policy," which the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology has done through the "National Space Program." The National Space Policy has been adopted, focusing on supporting scientific research, developing the necessary infrastructure, and qualifying national competencies in the space sector, he pointed out. He explained that engaging in educational space projects has a significant impact on developing the local space sector, such as designing and manufacturing educational satellites in cooperation with universities in the Sultanate of Oman. This, he said, would contribute to training students in all stages of space systems, from design, manufacturing, and testing to receiving and analyzing space data. Contributing to strengthening Oman's role as a regional center for research and development in astronomy and space will empower national competencies in scientific and innovative projects, Al Hosni affirmed.
Muscat Daily
29-06-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Summer break: How can students stay meaningfully engaged?
With schools now closed for summer, how can students be engaged meaningfully during the holidays? Is there need for more summer activities for children and teenagers? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – Aarti Menon, Teacher Summer is the perfect time for students to explore hobbies outside the syllabus – music, painting, creative writing or coding. I do think Oman needs more affordable, structured summer camps for different age groups. Many children end up glued to screens because parents can't always engage them. Activities should focus on both fun and life skills.. Faisal al Amr, Private sector employee Children today spend too much time indoors, especially during the hot months. We need more cultural and indoor sports programmes that connect them with Omani heritage. My sons love astronomy. I wish we had more workshops on astronomy conducted by Oman Astronomical Society. Meaningful engagement will keep them learning, active and off their phones. Neha Prakash, Marketing executive As a working parent, I find the long summer break very difficult to manage. Private workshops are expensive and often not age-appropriate. I'd love to see more community-led free or low-cost sessions in art, environment and even robotics. Teens, in particular, need group activities to keep them social and mentally healthy. Sunayna Bobby, Teacher Summer vacations could be utilised to make children understand the importance of community service. They need to understand that as responsible individuals they should become meaningful contributors – whether small or big – to society. It could be working at an NGO, volunteering for clean ups, spending time with elderly at old age homes, part of soup kitchens, organising donations for a purpose etc. Sulaima Khalid al Kindi, IT professional Libraries, museums and parks should host interactive holiday sessions. If students are exposed to real-world challenges – sustainability, digital skills, social work etc – even once a week, it leaves a huge impact. I also wish some more physical activity classes in late evening like swimming or indoor football and basketball. Supriya Jain, Artist With schools closed for summer, students can be meaningfully engaged through art, sports, reading and skill-based workshops. These activities nurture creativity, discipline and learning beyond academics. There is indeed a growing need for more structured summer programmes that offer fun, safe and enriching experiences for children and teenagers during the holidays. Joyita Dasgupta, Teacher Speaking from my experience as a middle and secondary school teacher, engaging students meaningfully during summer holidays is important to prevent learning loss, maintain curiosity and support overall development. Children must be presented the opportunity for enrichment with life skills and global awareness. Volunteering will allow them to connect with local community service projects, while entrepreneurial tasks can help them plan small business ideas, like a handmade craft stall or tutoring young peers. Additionally, students can start a summer journal or blog about their experiences or interests. Fatima Khan, Homemaker My children often get bored during summer unless they travel. I wish there were short filmmaking, writing or design camps in malls or schools for reasonable charges. We love learning in creative ways, but it's hard to find such opportunities. And when available, these are often expensive. Summer shouldn't feel like a pause from learning. Ahmed al Balushi, Student Younger students don't always have access to activities outside Muscat. It would be great to have mobile workshops or online clubs run by trained volunteers. We must include teenagers in planning so it's relevant to their interests. Photography, writing or volunteering could shape their thinking and open career paths. Srirupa Mukherjee Thakur, Teacher Instead of going for curated summer camps and activities, I would rather prefer children to read, travel, pick up a hobby or simply discover nature during the summer break. They are already part of a regimented system in schools round the year. Better let them explore and discover themselves!
Times of Oman
18-06-2025
- Climate
- Times of Oman
Oman to welcome summer solstice, Dhofar's Khareef season on Saturday
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman will witness the summer solstice phenomenon next Saturday as the sun aligns directly over the Tropic of Cancer, marking the official astronomical start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. This year's summer season will last approximately 93 days, 15 hours, and 37 minutes, according to astronomical calculations. Al Mukhtar Saif Al Saeedi, a member of Oman Astronomical Society, explained that this year's summer solstice will occur precisely at 6:42 AM Oman time on Saturday, 21 June. In Muscat Governorate, residents will experience the longest day of the year, with sunrise at 5:21 AM, the sun reaching its highest point at 12:09 PM, and sunset at 6:57 PM - resulting in a day length of 13 hours, 35 minutes, and 35 seconds. This phenomenon creates the longest daylight period and shortest night of the year across most Northern Hemisphere regions, including Europe, Asia, North America, and the Arctic Circle. The summer solstice represents a significant astronomical event where the Northern Hemisphere experiences its maximum tilt toward the sun, while simultaneously marking the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. The summer solstice coincides with several notable natural phenomena in Oman. Astronomically, it signals the beginning of Dhofar's Khareef season (monsoon season) along the coastal regions from Dhalkut in the west to Mirbat in the east, when monsoon winds carry moisture-laden clouds from the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
Observer
26-05-2025
- General
- Observer
Eid Al Adha likely on June 6
The main committee for sighting the crescent moon of the month of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH will meet at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs on Tuesday. Lunar experts and religious scholars will gather to observe the crescent moon, which will be visible for at least 20 to 29 minutes with the naked eye. Yousef bin Hamad al Rahbi, Director of the Astronomical Affairs Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, emphasised that astronomical calculations are crucial but must be confirmed by actual crescent moon sighting. The department highlighted the importance of crescent moon sighting in Islam, as it determines significant religious days such as the start and end of Ramadhan, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, sacred months like Muharram and Dhul Hijjah. Eid Al Adha will begin on the tenth day of the month, following the day of Arafah on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. Abdulwahab al Busaidy, an astronomer and member of Oman Astronomical Society, explained that the crescent moon will be visible at 07:02 in the morning, with the sun setting at 06:37 in Muscat. The crescent moon will set at 07:24, giving a 36-minute window for moon observation. "Accordingly, the crescent moon will be above the horizon by 8 degrees. In light of all this, we presume that the first day of the Dhul Hijjah will be Wednesday and the first day of Eid Al Adha will be on Friday June 6 for Oman and neighbouring countries as well," Al Busaidy said.
Gulf Business
20-03-2025
- Climate
- Gulf Business
Eid Al Fitr in Oman: A week-long holiday awaits
Image credit: Getty Images The first day of Eid Al Fitr in Oman is likely to fall on Monday, March 31, as predicted by astronomers. As a result, the Eid holidays in Oman are expected to begin on Sunday, March 30, and last until Thursday, April 3, giving citizens and residents a five-day break, a report in However, the holidays may be extended further since Friday (April 4) and Saturday (April 5) are weekend days, creating a nine-day break starting from the pre-Eid weekend. If the first day of Eid Al Fitr falls on Monday (March 31), it will be due to the 29th of Ramadan, which corresponds to March 29. On this day, the sun will set at 6:21 pm, and the moon will set at 6:26 pm, making it nearly impossible to see the moon, according to Abdulwahab Al Busaidy, head of the observatory at the Oman Astronomical Society. Al Busaidy also explained that the moon will be visible on the horizon for just five minutes, depending on the observer's location in Oman. The moon will be positioned only two degrees above the horizon, with an illumination of 0.04%. Therefore, it is less likely to be sighted in countries like Oman, which rely on moon sightings to declare Eid. For countries that depend on the birth of a new moon, Al Busaidy mentioned that they might be fasting for only 29 days, and their first day of Eid Al Fitr will be on March 30. The UAE's Eid Al Fitr holidays for f The 30th of Ramadan will be recognized as an additional public holiday if the Holy Month of Ramadan concludes with 30 days, thus extending the Eid Al Fitr break.
