SAASST celebrates International Dark Sky Week 2025

Sharjah 24: As part of its ongoing commitment to enhance environmental education and promote community participation, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), an affiliate of the University of Sharjah (UOS), organised an awareness event titled “Towards a Light Pollution-Free Sky in Sharjah.”

Held in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week 2025

The initiative was held in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week 2025, a global annual campaign aimed at preserving the natural darkness of the night sky and raising awareness about the effects of light pollution. The event attracted a diverse group of astronomy and environmental science enthusiasts.

Fatima Alkhateri, Director of the Sharjah Astronomical Planetarium Department, delivered the opening address, in which she introduced the event and its objectives, emphasizing that protecting the night sky is a shared responsibility, as light pollution is a serious environmental issue that directly affects ecosystems, human health, and cultural heritage. She pointed out that the event aims to raise awareness about the importance of adopting sustainable practices that contribute to preserving a dark and clear sky.

The event featured a series of interactive workshops and activities

The event featured a series of interactive workshops and activities, including a lecture titled “Understanding Light Pollution: Science, Impacts, and Global Efforts,” delivered by Ammar Eissa, Director of the Astronomical Observatories Department, during which he introduced the concept of light pollution, discussed its effects on observation, human health, and the environment, and highlighted international efforts to combat it.

Anoud Alzaabi, Research Analyst, led an interactive workshop that simulated the effects of light pollution on stars, while Research Analysts Mohammad Rihan and Samar Abu Aloul delivered a workshop on techniques for reducing light pollution using smart lighting for dark sky protection. This was followed by a workshop on photography techniques for documenting light pollution, presented by Yousuf Qasimi, Scientific Guide at the Sharjah Planetarium.

Participants enjoyed a tour of the space science exhibitions and a special show at the Sharjah Planetarium, “The Disappearing Night Sky,” presented by Ahmad Salahudeen, Scientific Guide at the Sharjah Planetarium, who explained the effects of light pollution on the visibility of astronomical objects such as planets, stars, and comets.

The event concluded with a live stargazing experience under light-pollution conditions, led by Research Analyst Mohammed Talafha. Participants used advanced telescopes to observe the night sky and examine the impact of light pollution on astronomical observation, utilizing specialized instruments to assess and monitor light pollution levels. This experience deepened their practical understanding of the importance of preserving dark night skies.