Sharjah24 : The University of Sharjah (UOS) concluded the 14th Arabic Conference of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, jointly organized by the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences (AUASS), in collaboration with the UOS and the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and technology (SAASST). Over four days, more than 250 research papers and scientific studies were discussed in 36 sessions, with the participation of an elite group of scholars and academic researchers. More than 250 participants from 40 countries contributed to these scientific discussions, resulting in several recommendations and findings. Theses elucidate solutions and developmental strategies to support fields of space sciences and astronomy in various domains, including education awareness, technological advancements, Arab and international collaboration, and capacity building.
The participants expressed their appreciation and gratitude to the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Founder of the University of Sharjah, and Honorary President of AUASS, as well as to His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Sharjah, for their unlimited support and patronage of the conference hosted by UOS.
During the concluding session, His Excellency, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, UOS Chancellor, President of AUASS, and Conference Chair, highlighted the key recommendations and proposals endorsed by the scientific research and studies presented during the conference. These recommendations included encouraging cooperation among Arab countries in space research and astronomy projects, establishing joint initiatives, programs, and projects utilizing all resources and expertise, and working towards establishing an Arab space agency. Additionally, the conference advised offering academic programs at various educational levels in the fields of astronomy and space science, establishing innovative training programs for Arab youth, supporting investment ideas in advanced technology related to astronomy and space sciences, and enhancing local capabilities.
Moreover, the conference emphasized the importance of open access to data and results of research published in Arab, global journals and websites related to space sciences and technology. It highlighted the need for efficient mechanisms for data exchange, regional and international cooperation, and proposed the creation of a specialized scientific journal in the field of space. Furthermore, the conference called for the need to foster human capacity-building initiatives, support the establishment of research centers and laboratories, and establish an Arab virtual astronomical observatory combining ancient and modern astronomical observations, link it to the International Virtual Observatory Alliance (IVOA), consider environmental impacts on space activities, promote sustainable practices, and responsibly use space resources.
On the sidelines of the conference, the General Assembly of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences held its periodic meeting chaired by Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy. He was acclaimed and approved as the President of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences in its next edition (2023-2027). Additionally, deputies of the president and council members were elected and appointed. During the council’s session, Libya’s request to host the 21st meeting of the Supreme Council of the AUASS in 2024 was approved. The council also agreed for Tunisia to host the Arab Youth and Amateurs Forum in Space Sciences and Technology in 2025, as well as host the 15th conference of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, which will coincide with the total solar eclipse from August 1st to 4th, 2027. In case of any unavailability, the conference will be hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt.