The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology celebrated the International Asteroid Day, a global event held annually on June 30, with the aim of raising awareness about types of asteroids and their impact on earth, in the presence of researchers and students passionate about astronomy and space sciences.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Ilias Fernini, Deputy General Director for Research and Scientific Projects, stressed the importance of detecting and tracking hazardous asteroids to save the planet earth by using new technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI). He also pointed to the academy achievements in fields of astronomy and space sciences, as well as its advanced facilities including Sharjah Optical Observatory, the planetarium and scientific exhibitions. Moreover, he praised the acade my great efforts exerted in conducting and publishing scientific researches in various fields, including astrophysics and radio astronomy.

The celebration program included an interesting show at the planetarium equipped with advanced technology, a tour around meteorite collection, and a number of scientific lectures including Why Asteroids delivered by Prof. Ilias Fernini. ;Asteroid Missions by Maryam Sharif, Research Assistant at Research Laboratories. Whereas Fatima Alkhateri, Scientific Guide at the Planetarium and Exhibitions discussed about Observing Near Earth Asteroids with Sharjah Optical Observatory. In addition to UAE Meteor Monitoring Network (UAEMMN) lecture, delivered by Anas Adwan, Laboratory Engineer, Department of Research and Scientific Projects, while Aisha Al-Owais, Research Assistant at the Meteorite Center, discussed about dentifying Earth-impacting asteroids using AI thereafter, Salma Subhi, Research Assistant at the Meteorite Center, talked about Impact Craters in the solar system.