Gazing at the stars

The International Astronomical Center in Abu Dhabi connects science with society, generating an interest for astronomy in the community

The UAE has been pursuing an ambitious National Space Programme after launching the Emirates Mars Mission to reach Mars by 2021. Astronomy turns out to be a fascinating subject as one explores and discovers the wonders of prominent stars and take in the astonishing sights of nature, understanding a little about your place in the universe. Abu Dhabi-based  International Astronomical Center (IAC) has been playing an important role to reach out to the masses.
Samer Hakawati, Executive Director, IAC, first developed his interest in astronomy after attending a course at the American University of Sharjah. Today he supports and manages all operations at IAC and is a reliable scientific reference for those who are interested in astronomical sciences. His role involves strengthening the centre's relationship with the varied local, regional and international astronomical reference centres and spreading the correct astronomical awareness amongst the community.
He confesses that his interest in astronomy was triggered by constant observation. "It made me realise that our transcendental brains and minds are working beyond our physical senses and limits because of electrical pulses and magnetic radiations," he says in an interview with Khaleej Times.
Elaborating on the fascinating aspects of astronomy, he says, "What is fascinating is when you consider our position on earth in relation to space and the universe. Firstly, it is the idea of gathering socially and unified as one family on one planet. Secondly, it is the sense of idealism, excellence and uniqueness as a human since we are still the only observed intelligent life over the long phases of life's evolution, at least within our solar system."
Hakawati adds that astronomy encompasses science. "Astronomy is involved within every kind of science. Whether physically and metaphysically, astronomy is considered as the mentor and counsellor of science. It helps us understand our position and the workings of the universe, connecting us to nature and our surroundings, whilst providing an infinite source for human knowledge. It is explorable on a daily basis individually or collectively, plus it is enjoyable and fun."
One of the world's oldest pastimes, stargazing is mesmerising for even the most unenthusiastic of observers. For night observation, Hakawati's favourite sights include Saturn, Nebulas and meteor showers, and for day observation The Solar Coronas, Solar prominence and Sunspots.
Here is Hakawati's advice for aspiring (amateur) astronomers, "Astronomy will show you your life path and the purposes of your existence. You will learn to keep exploring and discovering throughout life, in addition to learning lots of interesting scientific facts."
- suchitra@khaleejtimes.com


FACTOIDS

The Milky Way galaxy is whirling rapidly, spinning our sun and all its other stars at around 100 million km per hour.
The Milky Way galaxy we live in is one among billions in space.
The sun travels around the galaxy once every 200 million years - a journey of 100,000 light years.
The Universe may have neither a centre nor an edge, because according to Einstein's theory of relativity, gravity bends all of space-time around into an endless curve.

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