The Eleventh Arab Conference on Space and Astronomy
Hosted by: University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates*
Date: December 8-11, 2014*
Overview
The Eleventh Arab Conference on Space and Astronomy was held in conjunction with the Second International Conference on the History of Science among Arabs and Muslims at the University of Sharjah from December 8 to 11, 2014. This event coincided with the inauguration of the Sharjah Astronomy Park, celebrating Sharjah as the Islamic Cultural Capital of 2014. The conference included various sessions and scientific lectures focusing on Arab observatories, astronomical instruments, and rigorous scientific research in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, and space sciences. Topics covered included the universe and its celestial bodies such as stars, galaxies, the solar system, meteors, and meteorite craters. Sessions were also dedicated to the latest advancements in remote sensing technology, Earth observation from space, solar physics, solar activities and their effects on the atmosphere, and the Arab scientific heritage in astronomy and atmospheric sciences.
Objectives
1. Supporting Sustainable Development:* Discuss frameworks to enhance the role of space and astronomy sciences in supporting sustainable development programs in Arab countries.
2. Highlighting Technological Advances:* Showcase the latest in space technology and astronomical discoveries to a broad audience of enthusiasts.
3. Global Collaboration:* Explore global astronomical projects and international space programs, and discuss ways to strengthen scientific cooperation to benefit the region and its institutions and individuals.
4. Research Opportunities:* Examine opportunities to contribute to international scientific studies and highlight the region’s unique capabilities, as well as explore attracting scientific investments.
5. Fostering Interest:* Highlight the growing interest among research institutions, educators, researchers, and amateurs in various aspects of space and astronomy sciences, and create a fertile environment for networking and sharing practical experiences.
6. Capacity Building:* Support sustainable development programs by organizing a series of national capacity-building workshops in the fields of space and astronomy.
7. Strengthening Scientific Ties:* Enhance scientific and cultural cooperation among Arab scientists, researchers, and enthusiasts in space and astronomy sciences.
8. Union Meeting:* Utilize this scientific Arab gathering to hold the ninth General Assembly meeting of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy to discuss proposed plans for the Union’s building and facilities, their funding, as well as approve administrative, financial reports, and the strategic plan for 2015-2020.
Conference Topics
1. Astronomical Observatories and Instruments:* Latest projects and technologies in astronomy and space.
2. Arab Astronomical and Physical Heritage:* New methods for studying and documenting the Arab heritage in these fields.
3. Earth Observation from Space:* Techniques and applications.
4. Educational Programs:* Promoting astronomy and space sciences.
5. Research Projects for Youth and Amateurs:* Encouraging involvement and contributions.
6. Galactic and Cosmic Studies:* Latest research findings.
7. Space Tourism:* Visions and challenges.
8. Peaceful Uses of Outer Space:* Techniques and applications.
9. Stellar and Interstellar Medium Studies:* Research on stars and the spaces between them.
10. Planetary Studies:* Research on planets and their atmospheres, including Earth.
11. Celestial Mechanics and Orbital Control:* Innovations and studies.
12. Meteorites and Impact Craters:* Effects on Earth and living organisms.
13. Solar Activity and Climate Change:* The relationship between solar activities and environmental changes.
14. Astronomical and Space Associations:* Activities of clubs and societies in the Arab world.
15. Administrative Discussions:* Sessions for the Higher Council and General Assembly of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy.
Conference Committees
– Chairman:* Prof. Hamid Mjool Al-Nuaimi, President of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy, Director of the University of Sharjah
– Coordinator:* Dr. Hussein Mohamed Al-Mahdi, Deputy Dean of the College of Sciences, University of Sharjah
– Members:*
– Prof. Shawqi Al-Dallal, Vice President of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy, Bahrain
– Prof. Jamal Al-Maimouni, Vice President of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy
– Prof. Muslim Shaltout, Vice President of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy, Egypt
– Dr. Ouni Saleh Al-Khasawneh, Secretary-General of the Arab Union of Space and Astronomy, Jordan
– Sheikh Salman bin Jabr Al-Thani, Director of the Qatari Club, Qatar
– Prof. Hassan Basurah, Head of the Department of Astronomy at King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia
– Prof. Majid Mahmoud Jarad, Professor of Astrophysics at Anbar University, Iraq
– Prof. Suleiman Baraka, Palestine
– Dr. Saleh bin Said Al-Shaizani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Omani Astronomical Society, Oman