Latest news with #OmanSocietyofAstronomyandSpace
Observer
11-05-2025
- Science
- Observer
Largest sunspot of 2025 observed in Oman
Muscat: One of the largest sunspots that have ever appeared on the sun's surface during the 25th solar cycle, known as Sunspot 4079, has been spotted in the skies of the Sultanate of Oman. The sunspot's size exceeded 11 times the size of planet Earth, Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS) said on Sunday. The giant sunspot was observable from the skies of Muscat Governorate using specialized astronomical equipment in a rare scene that reflects the peak of the ongoing solar activity. Wesal bint Salem al Hinai, Vice Chair of the Community Engagement Committee at OSAS, said: 'Sunspot 4079 represents one of the largest phenomena we have observed during the current solar cycle. Photographing it from the Sultanate of Oman is a scientific and astronomical achievement that highlights the OSAS's efforts to monitor cosmic phenomena that have a direct impact on Earth. She added : 'Sunspots are one of the most prominent phenomena associated with the sun's magnetic activity. They represent a crucial indicator for understanding the behaviour of our solar system's star and its multiple effects on planet Earth. The sun undergoes regular cycles of magnetic activity known as "solar cycles," each of which lasts an average of about 11 years. During these cycles, the sun's surface undergoes noticeable changes in the number of sunspots, the intensity of flares, and coronal mass ejections directly impacting space weather and the geomagnetic environment surrounding Earth.'
Observer
11-05-2025
- Science
- Observer
Sunspot 11 times the size of earth spotted over Muscat sky
Muscat: A massive sunspot, estimated to be 11 times the size of Earth, was observed over Muscat skies on Thursday morning, marking the largest solar blemish recorded so far in 2025. Captured by Ibrahim al Mahrouqi using specialised solar lenses, the image shows sunspot AR4079 dominating the solar surface. The photograph, taken on May 8, was shared by the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space and quickly drew attention for its clarity and scientific significance. The appearance of AR4079 follows a broader surge in solar activity in recent weeks, as sunspot numbers across the solar disk have exceeded projections. The Oman Society of Astronomy and Space noted that these increases are typical during the solar maximum phase and are often accompanied by strong solar flares and coronal mass ejections.
Times of Oman
28-02-2025
- Science
- Times of Oman
National Museum hosts symposium on documenting astronomical heritage
Muscat: The National Museum hosted today the "National Symposium on Documenting Omani Astronomical Heritage" in collaboration with the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space. The event was held under the auspices of Salem Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum. A number of researchers and enthusiasts in the field of astronomical heritage attended the event. The symposium aimed to bring together individuals interested in Omani astronomical heritage from various scientific disciplines, providing a platform to exchange knowledge and experiences on how to preserve and document this heritage, which is an integral part of Oman's rich history. Additionally, the symposium seeked to raise awareness about the significance of this heritage on the lives of Omanis and to introduce future generations to its profound and diverse aspects, including astronomical applications in agriculture, fishing, navigation, and the climate. Dr. Issa Yahya Al Shuaili, Chairman of Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, said in his speech: "This National Symposium highlights the Omani astronomical heritage as one of the important aspects of Oman's rich history, reflecting the depth of our ancestors' knowledge in astronomy and its significant role in forming their daily lives, whether in navigation, agriculture, the division of Aflaj (irrigation systems), and other fields". He added that preserving this scientific and cultural heritage is not only about documenting the past, but rather an essential step toward strengthening the national identity and leveraging the knowledge of our ancestors to develop modern studies in astronomy. This perspective aligns with the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes the importance of identity, heritage, and culture as key elements in building the future, as well as enhancing research and innovation to serve as a fundamental pillar for community development. The Chairman of Oman Society of Astronomy and Space announced the launch of the national initiative to document Omani astronomical heritage, which aims to gather and document traditional knowledge about astronomy and highlight Omanis contributions in this field. He pointed out that this initiative is not about preserving heritage only, but also an opportunity to connect the past with the present and future, while addressing the loss of heritage whose sources are becoming scarce as its narrators and experts age. The symposium shed light on the importance of preserving this astronomical heritage within the framework of Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes "preserving, documenting, and disseminating heritage globally", thereby enhancing the position of the Sultanate of Oman regionally and internationally. The need to highlight and document the research efforts of Omani scientists in this field was also emphasized, given the obscurity as a challenge to this heritage. The symposium included three sessions that covered various astronomical topics related to Omani astronomical heritage. In the first session, two important papers were presented, focusing on agricultural heritage. The first paper, "Distribution of Aflaj Using Stars", explored the relationship between astronomy and water distribution techniques in the Sultanate of Oman using the location of stars. The second paper, "Omani Navigators' Use of Zodiac Signs, Mansions, and Stars". The second session, discussed three maritime astronomical heritage. The first paper, "Distribution of Aflaj Using al-Lamad", explained how water is divided in traditional Omani irrigation systems (Aflaj) using celestial patterns. The second paper, "Stars, Fishing Seasons, and Sea Strikes as Defined by Omanis", clarified the significance of stars in determining fishing and sailing times. Additionally, the paper "Agricultural Astronomical Heritage: An Anthropological Study of the Astronomical Heritage of the Hobiot-speaking Communities in Dhofar Governorate, Sarfait Village" examined the relationship between astronomy and agriculture in Sarfait village. Another paper, titled "Astronomy and its Relationship with Weather and Climate in the Sultanate of Oman," was also presented. The third session covered topics related to astronomical calculations and manuscripts, including a paper that discussed "Astronomical Awareness Among Omanis: Sheikh Omar bin Masoud al-Manthri's Book and al-Hajri's letter as a Model," along with another paper titled "The Sidereal Year and the Calculation of the Cycle," which explored how Omanis used the stars to determine seasons and times of the year. Finally, the session concluded with the paper "Astronomy and Military Tactics among the Omanis." The symposium concluded with a series of recommendations, including emphasizing the importance of the national initiative to document Omani astronomical heritage and publishing related research widely. There was also a call to include Omani astronomical heritage in school curricula to enhance astronomical awareness among future generations and to strengthen the position of the Sultanate of Oman in the international astronomical arena.
Muscat Daily
22-02-2025
- Science
- Muscat Daily
Omani discovers near-Earth object, has privilege to name it
Muscat – In a landmark achievement for Oman's scientific community, Khalfan bin Hamad al Malki, a chemistry teacher, has become the first member of Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS) to make a preliminary detection of a near-Earth object. The asteroid has been officially recorded by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Malki now has the rare privilege of naming it within a week. He is considering either a family name or a tribute to Oman. Temporarily designated by NASA as P226gRJ , the asteroid marks the first such detection by an Omani citizen involved in the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) project. Malki made the discovery on February 5 after analysing time-lapse images of the sky distributed by IASC, a global initiative that enables citizen scientists to assist in detection of near-Earth objects. Asteroids like P226gRJ are remnants from the early formation of the solar system, typically found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. While most remain in stable orbits far from Earth, those that venture closer, particularly between Earth and the Moon, are monitored closely as potential threats. Global space agencies, including NASA, increasingly rely on contributions from citizen scientists to help detect these objects. Once identified, experts assess factors such as size, speed, trajectory and potential risk. Malki's discovery highlights both Oman's growing role in global space research and the importance of collaborative efforts in expanding man's understanding of the cosmos. 'This discovery has brought me immense happiness,' Malki said. 'I did not expect to find an asteroid and pinpoint its coordinates. I am grateful for this opportunity and thank Abdul Wahab al Busaidi and Ghaida al Jabri for their support in this project. God willing, discoveries will continue with the help of OSAS.' Busaidi, a board member of OSAS, called the discovery a significant milestone. 'This achievement encourages greater citizen participation in space research. With more eyes on the sky, the world continues to deepen its understanding of the universe.' Malki's discovery not only marks a personal triumph but also reflects the increasing contributions of Middle Eastern researchers to global space exploration efforts.
Muscat Daily
15-02-2025
- Science
- Muscat Daily
Venus to shine at its brightest over Oman on Sunday
Muscat – Stargazers are in for a treat as the skies over Oman will witness a striking celestial phenomenon on Sunday. Planet Venus will reach its maximum brightness, appearing as a brilliant object on the western horizon after sunset. Wasal bint Salem al Hinai, Vice-President of Community Communication at Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, said, 'Venus is the third brightest object in the sky after the sun and the moon, with an apparent brightness of -4.52 magnitude, making it about 30 times brighter than Sirius, the brightest star.' She explained that Venus will be at its closest point to Earth during this period, reflecting a large amount of sunlight in its crescent phase. 'This makes it appear exceptionally bright and clear, especially when viewed through telescopes that can reveal its cloud-covered surface,' she said. Venus will remain visible in the evening sky till mid-March before disappearing on March 16. 'It will then reappear on the eastern horizon at the end of the month as the 'morning star',' Wasal said. She described this period as a 'golden opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts' to observe the planet with the naked eye or through telescopes, which will highlight the details of its crescent phase. Venus is classified as an inner planet because it orbits within Earth's path around the sun. 'Unlike outer planets, it does not appear throughout the night but is visible either before sunrise in the east or after sunset in the west,' she said. During these times, Venus is far enough from the sun's glare to be seen clearly. Ancient civilisations closely observed Venus, referring to it as the 'morning star' and 'evening star' due to its predictable appearances. Its thick atmosphere, composed mainly of carbon dioxide with traces of nitrogen and sulphuric acid, reflects 75% of sunlight, giving it its striking glow. However, this atmosphere also traps heat, making Venus the hottest planet in the solar system, with surface temperatures reaching 467°C – hot enough to melt lead. The atmospheric pressure is 92 times that of Earth, equivalent to the pressure experienced at 900m below sea level. 'Despite extensive study, Venus still holds many secrets,' Wasal said. 'Global space agencies, including NASA and the European Space Agency, are planning missions to uncover the planet's history and understand why it became a hostile world despite its similarities to Earth in size and composition.' Venus' peak brightness presents a rare spectacle for stargazers, offering a chance to witness one of the most striking sights in the night sky.
