SAASST, MSU explores collaboration in research and space projects

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) at the University of Sharjah (UoS) received a delegation from Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) to discuss opportunities for collaboration in research and projects related to astronomy and space sciences. The visit aimed to explore SAASST's scientific departments, facilities, activities and learn about SAASST's various participation in national and international conferences. During the visit, the Russian delegation received a brief introduction to various SAASST units, including the Research Laboratories, Optical Observatories, and the Sharjah Planetarium. They also learned about the research being conducted in multiple fields. Additionally, they had the opportunity to tour the space exhibitions, explore the meteorite collection and watch a special show in the newly developed Sharjah Planetarium, equipped with high-precision digital projectors. In return, the Russian delegation presented their space sciences research and projects in space and gravitation, Earth, and solar system bodies. The attendees from SAASST included Prof. Ilias Fernini, Director of the Space Sciences Department; Prof. Mashhoor Al-Wardat, Professor of Astrophysics, UoS, and Director of Academic Affairs; Mr. Marwan Shwaiki, Director of Planetarium and Community Outreach Department, and Prof. Mounir Kaidi, Head of the Department of Applied Physics and Astronomy, UoS. The Russian delegation consisted of Prof. Vasiliy V. Sazonov, Dean of the Faculty for Space Research at MSU, Prof. Anton Biryukov from Sternberg Astronomical Institute of MSU, and Dr. Bashir Abbas Samaha, General Counselor at the Union of Rectors of Russian-Arab Universities.