In conjunction with Asteroid Day, observed each June 30 through a United Nations-backed global initiative aimed at raising awareness of asteroids and their role in understanding the origins of the solar system, the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub at the University of Sharjah marked Asteroid Day 2026 with a scientific program under the theme “Planetary Defense and the Risks of Asteroid Impacts”.

The event brought together researchers, specialists and astronomy enthusiasts in a public science forum designed to spread scientific knowledge, highlight the latest international efforts to track asteroids, and inspire future generations to take part in space exploration and the protection of Earth.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, director of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, said Asteroid Day is a global scientific occasion that helps raise awareness of the importance of studying asteroids and near-Earth objects, while also drawing attention to international efforts in planetary defense and risk monitoring. He said the event reflected the hub’s commitment to keeping pace with global scientific initiatives, promoting scientific culture, advancing interest in space and astronomy, and underscoring the leading role of the United Arab Emirates in supporting space studies, research and projects, as well as inspiring young people to pursue fields related to space science and technology.

The program featured a series of specialized scientific lectures, beginning with “What Are Asteroids and Why Are They Important?”, which introduced asteroids and their scientific significance. That was followed by a lecture on the United Arab Emirates’ mission to explore the asteroid belt and the role of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub in the national project, as well as a lecture on the orbital characteristics of asteroids. The program concluded with a lecture on the near-Earth asteroid Apophis and the latest scientific studies related to it.

The event also included a special show in the Sharjah Planetarium titled “From Earth to the Asteroid Belt,” which took the audience on an interactive journey through the asteroid belt. The presentation highlighted the hub’s meteorite collection, showcasing rare specimens and explaining their origins, where they were found, their mineral composition, and the valuable scientific information they offer about the formation of the solar system. The program helped make astronomical concepts more accessible and deepened public interest in space and astronomy.