Muscat
The Oman Astronomical and Space Association has achieved a scientific milestone by discovering two new asteroids designated P226fqs and P226gRJ. This achievement is part of the International Asteroid Search Campaign (IASC), which aims to discover and track near-Earth asteroids through precise astronomical data analysis using the latest scientific technologies.
Two members of the Oman Astronomical and Space Association, who participated in the initiative as part of a research team, played an active role in the observation process. This reflects the advanced scientific capabilities that the Omani team has reached and demonstrates the ability of amateur astronomers and researchers in Oman to effectively contribute to international astronomical research by leveraging modern technologies and participating in global scientific initiatives.
The participants in this campaign received high recognition, as they were awarded official certificates from the American space agency “NASA” in appreciation of their outstanding scientific contributions and efforts to support global scientific research in the field of asteroid observation and tracking.
Ashraf bin Ali Al-Mahrouqi, a member of the Oman Astronomical and Space Association and one of the research team members involved in this initiative, stated that this achievement comes as part of the continuous support provided by the association to enhance scientific research in the field of astronomy, alongside the great passion exhibited by Omani researchers who have shown a clear commitment to analyzing precise data and tracking celestial bodies.
In a statement to the Oman News Agency, he emphasized that the recognition from “NASA” serves as a strong incentive to continue working and participating in such international research projects, contributing to enhancing Oman’s presence on the global scientific stage.
Al-Mahrouqi pointed out that the Oman Astronomical and Space Association aims, through its participation in international initiatives, to promote astronomical culture among various segments of society and to encourage Omani youth to engage in space sciences and scientific research that enhances the position of the Sultanate of Oman in this vital field.
He added that this discovery is an important step towards strengthening international cooperation in the field of astronomy and opens wide horizons for further future achievements that could place the Sultanate of Oman among the leading countries in the observation and tracking of celestial bodies.
He clarified that this achievement marks the beginning of a promising scientific journey and inspires more researchers and amateurs in Oman to actively participate in such initiatives and contribute to achieving new scientific accomplishments that enhance Oman’s presence on the international astronomical stage.
