His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah received Emirati astronauts Hazzaa Al Mansoori and Sultan Al Neyadi on Thursday morning at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST). SAASST stands as an eminent academic and research institution dedicated to the advancement of studies in astronomy and space sciences. It encompasses a range of specialized halls and advanced laboratories designed to foster research, disseminate knowledge, and acquaint visitors with significant milestones and breakthroughs in space exploration and astrophysical research. The delegation included H.E. Hamad Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, and a number of senior officials and staff members from the center.

At the beginning of the visit, His Highness welcomed the astronauts and their accompanying delegation to the academy. Next, His Highness, accompanied by the astronauts and attendees, toured the academy’s halls and exhibitions featuring scientific displays on astronomy, physics, and the progression of cosmic phenomena. The tour also included a visit to the academy’s rare meteorite collection, one of the largest and most diverse of its kind globally, comprising more than 8,000 specimens originating from various sources and classifications.

The visitors were briefed on SAASST’s basic projects, scientific initiatives, and laboratory experiments. They were also introduced to the academy’s observatories, educational programs, and the advanced facilities of its modern planetarium, which serve as vital platforms for research, learning, and public engagement in the field of space sciences. The gathering also viewed The Religion of Value, a scientific documentary authored by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. The film narrates the story of the universe from the moment of the Big Bang through the present and into its conceivable future, drawing upon Qur’anic verses and recounting episodes from the lives of prophets and messengers, peace be upon them.

The Emirati astronauts expressed their profound appreciation to His Highness for the generous reception and for his steadfast support of scientific progress and research in the domain of space sciences. They commended the pivotal role of SAASST in enriching scientific inquiry, nurturing young specialists, and strengthening the UAE’s leadership in space exploration. In addition, as a token of gratitude, the astronauts presented commemorative gifts to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi in recognition of his warm reception and continued encouragement of the nation’s scientific endeavors.

The meeting was attended by H.E. Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Sharjah; H.E. Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah and Director of the Academy; and several members of the University of Sharjah’s Board of Trustees and senior officials of the academy.