SAASST Hosts Significant Sessions At Arab-German Conference On Science And Humanities

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) recently hosted pivotal discussions during the Arab-German Conference on Science and Humanities. This event, in partnership with the University of Sharjah and the Arab-German Young Academy of Sciences and Humanities (AGYA), focused on innovative topics in space and astronomy. Distinguished guests included Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, and Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany in Dubai.

Under the theme "Cosmic Cooperation Under the Sharjah Astronomical Dome," researchers and academics gathered to share insights. The sessions began with a specialised scientific discussion on space and astronomy. This session was led by Dr. Lina Maria Müller and Prof. Mohammad Al-Wuhaib, both alumni of AGYA.

Professor Mashhoor Al-Wardat from the University of Sharjah provided an in-depth analysis of heliocentrism's observational foundations. He examined the evidence used by Copernicus to support this model. Following him, Prof. Hans Christian von Herrmann from the Technical University of Berlin spoke about experiencing the cosmos within a planetarium dome.

An interactive artwork titled Ionospheric Butterfly was unveiled during the programme. Created by Berlin-based artist Felix Kiessling in collaboration with SAASST's Space Weather and Ionosphere Lab, this installation transforms real-time space weather data into dynamic colours and light displays.

Participants then moved to the Sharjah Planetarium for Journey Through the Universe. This narrated experience combined scientific knowledge with storytelling to explore stars, asteroids, and ancient sky legends.

Awards and Stargazing

The conference concluded with awards for winners of the student competition Next-Generation Innovators. Participants who contributed to organising the event were also recognised. The evening wrapped up with a stargazing session that allowed attendees to observe distant celestial objects while blending science, creativity, and cultural exploration seamlessly.

With inputs from WAM