Khalifa University Professor Honored with Asteroid Named After Him
In a momentous occasion, Khalifa University of Science and Technology’s Dr. Mohamed Ramy El-Maarry, an associate professor of planetary science and director of the Space and Planetary Science Centre, has been recognized for his remarkable contributions to astronomy. The International Astronomical Union has named an asteroid after him, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the field.
The asteroid, previously known as Asteroid 2002 CZ, will now be referred to as (357148) El-Maary, commemorating Dr. El-Maarry’s significant research on comets and planetary science. Expressing his gratitude, he stated, “I feel humbled and privileged to receive this honor. It is a lifetime achievement award that will leave a lasting legacy.”
Dr. El-Maarry hopes that this recognition will inspire future generations of Arab scientists to pursue scientific endeavors. He believes that it is crucial to break the notion that only NASA and Western scientists make significant contributions to planetary science. With the UAE making remarkable strides in space and exploration, this accolade serves as proof that scientists from the Arab region are making substantial contributions to the field.
Furthermore, Dr. El-Maarry will represent Khalifa University as part of the UAE’s recently announced mission to explore the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. This mission aims to uncover vital information about icy asteroids, providing valuable insights into the formation of our solar system.
Khalifa University’s Dr. Arif Al Hammadi, executive vice president of the university, expressed his pride in the naming of the asteroid, stating, “It marks a significant milestone for Khalifa University and the UAE.” The recognition highlights the globally relevant research conducted at the Space and Planetary Science Centre.
Dr. El-Maarry’s expertise in cometary geology propelled him to receive this prestigious accolade. Over the years, he has played pivotal roles in various international space missions, including Nasa’s New Horizons mission, the Emirates’ lunar mission, and the upcoming ESA ExoMars Rover. His dedication to planetary surface research through data analysis, modeling, lab work, and fieldwork has made significant contributions to the field.
The newly named (357148) El-Maarry asteroid can be observed in the Nasa Small Bodies Database. Located in the inner asteroid belt, approximately 300 million kilometers from the Sun, it has an orbital period of around three-and-a-half years, with its closest approach to the Sun expected on August 11, 2024.
The discovery of what is now known as the (357148) El-Maarry asteroid was made in February 2002 by the Department of Astronomy and Astronomical Observatory of Padova University and the German Aerospace Centre, Berlin.
This esteemed recognition serves as a testament to Dr. El-Maarry’s invaluable contributions to the field of astronomy and paves the way for future accomplishments in space exploration.
Professor at Khalifa University honored with asteroid naming
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