A Cosmology of Cooperation

Under the dome of the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAASST), an evening of integrated science, innovation, and collaboration unfolded as part of the AGYA Annual Conference in Sharjah. The Cosmology of Cooperation highlighted how Arab-German research collaboration drives excellence in space sciences, astrophysics, and interdisciplinary innovation. H.E. Prof. Dr. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, attended the event, emphasizing institutional support for initiatives that connect researchers and innovators across borders.

The evening opened with a welcome from Fatima Mohamed Alkhateri, Director of the Sharjah Astronomical Planetarium Department, who presented the planetarium as a hub of cutting-edge research, education, and international cooperation. Moderated by AGYA alumni Dr. Lena-Maria Möller and Prof. Dr. Mohammad Alwahaib, the program integrated history, advanced research, and applied innovation, demonstrating how AGYA and SAASST jointly foster Arab–German scientific collaboration.

When science meets arts: The Ionogram Butterfly

A centerpiece of the evening was The Ionogram Butterfly, a kinetic light installation by Berlin-based artist Felix Kiessling, a former master-class student of Ólafur Elíasson. The installation transforms live ionospheric data into dynamic light patterns, turning complex space weather research into a tangible, interpretive experience. Rather than focusing on finalized research results, the installation foregrounds data generation as a process, emphasizing scientific research as dynamic, provisional, and continuously unfolding. From a science communication perspective, the installation engages with pressing questions about how to communicate scientific processes rather than merely outcomes. The work was developed in collaboration with SAASST’s Space Weather and Ionosphere Lab and Eng. Abdollah Masoud Darya. It is now on permanent display at the Planetarium’s exhibition and exemplifies the impact of interdisciplinary Arab-German collaboration in science communication. 

The historical roots of astronomy

The scientific program continued with a lecture by Prof. Dr. Mashhoor Ahmad Alwardat titled Copernicus and His Arab Predecessors, which explored the historical roots of astronomy, as well as with the presentation of the NextGen Innovators Award, celebrating emerging researchers who bridge the gap between research, industry, and technology. Prof. Dr. Hans-Christian von Herrmann, Technical University Berlin, further linked rigorous academic research with experiential learning in his cosmic keynote, emphasizing the planetarium’s role in connecting theory and practice.

A live planetarium show, Journey Through the Universe, and outdoor star gazing – including star HIP 79431, officially named Sharjah – demonstrated SAASST’s unique capacity to combine cutting-edge research, advanced technology, and public engagement. The event underscored how AGYA and SAASST’s cooperation produces measurable scientific impact, fosters institutional excellence, and cultivates interdisciplinary innovation.

18 November 2025

Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAASST), UAE, as of 31 March 2026, Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub (SSAH), UAE