The panel discussion witnessed the active participation of a distinguished delegation representing the NASA, the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and its Consulate General in Dubai.
In a significant stride towards fostering knowledge and awareness in the realm of space exploration, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), affiliated with the University of Sharjah (UoS), recently organised a panel discussion titled The Future of Space Collaboration: Preparing the Next Generation for Deep Space Exploration. The event aimed to enlighten the youth about the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) space aspirations and ambitions, charting a course towards progress and prosperity, according to a report by WAM.
Professor Hamid MK Al Naimiy, Chancellor of UoS and Director-General of SAASST, underscored the significance of communication to enhance collaboration with local and international institutions in astronomy and space sciences. He emphasised that this collaboration aligns with the UAEs vision in the field of space exploration. Chancellor Al Naimiy also highlighted recent achievements, including the launch of the Sharjah-Sat-1 satellite and the newly developed Sharjah Planetarium equipped with cutting-edge technologies and projectors. Furthermore, he reiterated the University’s commitment to promoting the culture of space, astronomy education, and research through masters and PhD programmes in astronomy, space law, astrophysics, and space sciences.
This initiative was conducted in line with the recent announcement of the UAE’s accession to the project to develop and establish the lunar space station. The panel discussion witnessed the active participation of a distinguished delegation representing the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and its Consulate General in Dubai.
Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of UoS and Director-General of SAASST, highlighted the importance of communication to enhance collaboration with local and international institutions in astronomy and space sciences, in line with the UAEs vision in the field of space exploration. Furthermore, the Chancellor addressed the recent achievements of SAASST, including the launch of the Sharjah-Sat-1 satellite and the newly developed Sharjah Planetarium equipped with the latest technologies and projectors. He also emphasised the Universitys commitment to promoting the culture of space, astronomy education and research through offering masters and PhD programmes in the fields of astronomy, space law, astrophysics, and space sciences.
Daleya Uddin, Public Affairs Officer at the US Mission, commended the achievements of the United Arab Emirates, specifically recognising the University of Sharjah and SAASST for their active role in promoting and advancing the space industry on both national and international scales.
The panel discussion, moderated by Daleya Uddin, featured distinguished participants from NASA, including Dr Jon Olansen, Gateway Programme Manager, and Sean Fuller, Gateway International Partner Manager. Yousuf Faroukh, a Space Technology Engineer from the Space Sciences Department at SAASST, also participated. Topics covered during the discussion included the significance of international space collaboration, the contributions of the UAE to the lunar space station, and the role of public and private partnerships in NASAs Gateway project for the Lunar Station.
The conversation delved into experiences in shaping the development of human operations, spacecraft propulsion, autonomous precision landing systems for the Gateway program, and the building of capacities. Additionally, the session highlighted the importance of increasing public awareness in space sciences and exploration through various educational activities, lectures, and workshops. These initiatives leverage SAASSTs exhibitions and scientific activities conducted by experts in the field. The event marked a pivotal moment in advancing the dialogue and cooperation in the ever-expanding frontier of space exploration.
