Embarking on a New Cosmic Journey as National Coordinator for Pakistan at Astronomers Without Borders

 I am beyond excited to announce a significant step in my astronomical journey. It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I reveal my new role as the National Coordinator for Pakistan at Astronomers Without Borders.

Astronomy has long held my heart, and this opportunity aligns perfectly with my passion. With this role, I am not only a part of a global community of stargazers but also entrusted with the responsibility of fostering the same passion for the stars within my homeland.

As I embark on this cosmic journey, I am reminded of the phrase "One People, One Sky." It encapsulates the essence of our shared fascination with the cosmos, transcending borders and backgrounds. Together, we explore the mysteries above, driven by the same curiosity that has led humanity to the stars for generations.

Public Talk on "The First Stars in the Universe"

🌌 Exciting Announcement! Join us for a Public Talk on "The First Stars in the Universe" 🌠

We are thrilled to invite you to a fascinating public talk on the captivating topic of "The First Stars in the Universe," featuring Dr. Rafeel Riaz from Bernardo O'Higgins University in Santiago, Chile. This enlightening event is organized by the Computational Astrophysics Research Lab at the National Center in Big Data and Cloud Computing, NED University of Engineering and Technology in Karachi, Pakistan.

📅 Date: July 19, 2023 (Wednesday)

⏰ Time: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

📍 Venue: National Center in Big Data and Cloud Computing/Department of Computer and Information Systems Engineering, NED-UET, Karachi, Pakistan

During this engaging talk, Dr. Rafeel Riaz, a distinguished expert in the field, will delve into the mysteries surrounding the emergence of the first stars in our universe. Discover the secrets of these celestial marvels and gain a deeper understanding of their profound impact on the cosmos.

🔖 Admission: FREE!

However, due to limited slots, registration is mandatory. Secure your spot by registering at https://lnkd.in/d7aZkicQ . Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to expand your knowledge and engage with fellow students, researchers, and astronomy enthusiasts eager to explore the wonders of the universe.

For more information and event updates, please refer to the attached poster. Feel free to share this announcement with anyone who might be interested in this captivating topic.

We look forward to welcoming you to this enlightening public talk on "The First Stars in the Universe." Prepare to be inspired, educated, and amazed!

Let's embark on a journey of cosmic discovery together. See you there

We Are Now the LCO 2023 Global Sky Partner

We are delighted to announce that we have become the LCO (Las Cumbres Observatory) 2023 Global Sky Partner! This partnership opens up a world of possibilities for promoting astronomy education, research, and outreach throughout the country using the remarkable LCO telescopes.

As the LCO 2023 Global Sky Partner, we are truly excited about this opportunity to further enhance the field of astronomy in Pakistan. Our goal is to bring the wonders of the universe closer to people and  inspire a passion for the cosmos. With access to the cutting-edge LCO telescopes, we can now take astronomy education and research to new heights.

Through this partnership, we plan to organize various initiatives that will benefit students, researchers and enthusiasts. Astronomy workshops, seminars, and public lectures will be conducted to foster a deeper understanding of the universe and its mysteries. We aim to create an environment where individuals can explore and expand their knowledge of astronomy, nurturing a sense of wonder and curiosity about the cosmos.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the LCO for selecting us as their Global Sky Partner for 2023. This collaboration opens up a world of possibilities for the advancement of astronomy in Pakistan.

Celebrating Success: International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition Achievements

As an approved teacher and exam supervisor for the prestigious International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition since 2020, I have consistently encouraged my students to participate in this esteemed event. Over the past four years, several of my students have participated and performed exceptionally well. Today, I am thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of my students in this year's competition.

I am pleased to announce that Mr. Aly Gajani, one of my students, has received the distinguished Gold Honour award. This remarkable accomplishment places him among the top 5% of participants from around the world. Furthermore, I am delighted to share that he has also been recognized as a National Award winner in Pakistan.

Mr. Aly Gajani's achievement fills me with immense pride, and I believe it serves as an inspiration to all aspiring astronomers and astrophysicists. It stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who are dedicated, curious, and passionate about exploring the mysteries of the universe.

I would like to express my gratitude to the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition for providing a platform that fosters students' interest in astronomy and astrophysics on a global scale. Their unwavering commitment to nurturing scientific curiosity and promoting excellence in these fields is truly commendable.

Astronomy for Everyone: Bringing Cosmos to All

Public communication of astronomy plays a vital role in bridging the gap between the scientific astronomical community and the general public. It serves as a platform to share scientific achievements, promote formal and informal science education, and bring astronomy to a wider audience. 

While astronomers primarily focus on advancing our understanding of the Universe, the act of communicating their findings to society has gained significant importance. The goal of public astronomy communication is to make astronomy accessible and engaging for everyone.

Scientia deserves recognition for their science writing internship initiative. This initiative not only empowers young writers but also ensures the availability of engaging and accurate scientific content for the public.

I would like to express my utmost gratitude to Mr. Fouz Siddiqi for extending the invitation to deliver a talk on "Astronomy for Everyone: Bringing Cosmos to All." It was an absolute honor to address a group of enthusiastic future science communicators and share insights into the wonders of astronomy and space sciences. What made the experience even more special was the presence of numerous female writers, highlighting the increasing diversity and inclusivity within the science communication community. Their thoughts, perspectives, and passion for astronomy were truly inspiring.

Contributions of Astronauts and Cosmonauts in Space Exploration

Summer breaks are a cherished time for students to unwind and enjoy a respite from the daily grind of school. However, they also present a unique opportunity for young minds to expand their horizons, explore new fields of knowledge, and engage in intellectually stimulating activities. These educational programs offer a diverse range of subjects, empowering students to delve into areas beyond their regular curriculum. 

I would like to express my appreciation to Mr. Ali Areeze for extending an invitation to the Al Mehdi summer workshop, to deliver a lecture on the "contributions of astronauts and cosmonauts in space exploration". It was a great pleasure to talk on a platform where young minds can flourish, broaden their horizons, and embark on intellectual journeys that will shape their futures.

IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop- Great Impact

As Michael Morpurgo famously said, "It's the teacher that makes the difference, not the classroom." This sentiment rings true in every corner of the world, including in Pakistan where teachers like Ms. Bushra Fahad are making a tremendous impact on their students. We extend our sincere thanks to Ms. Bushra, participant of  IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop,  for sharing pictures of the event with us and granting us permission to feature them on our workshop blog. This event showcased her dedication to students and willingness to go above and beyond to foster their love of learning. She conducted a Galileoscope assembly activity with the IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop telescope assembly training kit at the Seeds school, Johar Campus,  Karachi. 

We are proud to have played a small role in inspiring and training teachers through IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop. By providing teachers with the tools and knowledge they need to create meaningful learning experiences, we can make a difference in the lives of students and help to foster a new generation of curious learners.

Exploring the Universe: The Potential Benefits of Radio Astronomy for Pakistan

Radio astronomy is a field that studies the universe through the analysis of radio waves emitted by celestial objects. In an article in T-Magazine, Dr. Syed Faisal ur Rahman argues that by investing in radio astronomy research and development, Pakistan has the potential to improve its technical capabilities in telecommunications, defence, medical imaging, and big data sciences. Investing in radio astronomy research also has the potential to foster collaboration and innovation across diverse groups and pave the way for more research avenues in the future. 

By launching amateur radio astronomy projects, universities could offer students a platform to learn about radio astronomy and discover new celestial objects and phenomena. Similarly, the establishment of a radio interferometer in Pakistan’s Balochistan region could lead to higher-resolution radio images and facilitate the development of advanced astronomical technologies. The potential impact of this project could be similar to that of CERN which brought together scientists from across the continent to collaborate on groundbreaking research that has transformed our understanding of the universe.

IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop- Great Impact

Henry B. Adams once said that a teacher's influence is everlasting and impossible to predict. This sentiment was brought to life by Ms. Sakina, a participant in the IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop who took inspiration from our workshop, sparked curiosity in her students' minds and inspired them to create incredible projects related to black holes, telescopes, and light pollution. We are thrilled to recognize her dedication in conducting a Galileoscope assembly activity with the IAU OAE Astronomy Teacher Training Workshop telescope assembly training kit at The Indus Academy, Karachi. 

It is teachers like Ms. Sakina who have the power to ignite a lifelong passion for learning in their students. We extend our sincere thanks to her for sharing pictures of the event with us, and granting us permission to feature them on our workshop blog. 

We are proud to have played a small role in promoting astronomy education in Pakistan by inspiring teachers and making a difference in the lives of students.

The Indus Academy, Karachi

Astronomy education is important for promoting scientific literacy and inspiring curiosity about the universe. We are committed to training more teachers in this subject to ensure that students have access to high-quality astronomy education and will be prepared to pursue careers in related fields.

🏆 Honored to Win First Prize in the Space Ambassador Contest! 🚀

We are thrilled and deeply honored to announce that we have won the first prize in the Space Ambassador Contest, organized by Space Education and Awareness Drive, Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). This prestigious award recognizes our dedicated efforts in organizing the remarkable World Space Week 2022.

The Space Ambassador Contest sought to acknowledge individuals and organizations that demonstrated outstanding commitment and contribution to promoting space education and awareness in Pakistan. We are humbled to be recognized for our endeavors in organizing the World Space Week, an event that celebrated the wonders of space and inspired countless individuals across the nation.

It fills us with immense pride to share that, according to the WSW 2022 Statistics, Pakistan secured the top position in organizing the highest number of events during the World Space Week 2022. This achievement showcases the enthusiasm and passion for space exploration that exists within our country.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Space Education and Awareness Drive (SEAD) and SUPARCO for honoring us with this prestigious award. We would also like to express our deepest appreciation to all our team members, and volunteers who played an integral role in organizing the World Space Week 2022. It

We are truly grateful for this recognition and remain committed to nurturing a passion for space exploration, fostering scientific curiosity, and advancing space education in Pakistan.

Books: Women in Space Science, Astronomy & Astrophysics

Thanks to the many authors who have delved into the lives and experiences of female space pioneers, astronomers and astrophysicist  we can read about these women’s enthralling and often difficult journeys. Here are some books worth reading 

1- "Rise of the Rocket Girls: The Women Who Propelled Us, from Missiles to the Moon to Mars" by Nathalia Holt - This book tells the story of the female "human computers" who worked at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California and played a crucial role in the development of America's space program.

2- "Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race" by Margot Lee Shetterly - This book (and the movie it inspired) tells the story of the African-American women who worked as mathematicians and engineers at NASA during the space race.

3- "The Glass Universe: How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took the Measure of the Stars" by Dava Sobel - This book tells the story of the women who worked at the Harvard College Observatory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including Henrietta Swan Leavitt, who discovered the period-luminosity relationship for Cepheid variable stars.

4- "Spacesuit: Fashioning Apollo" by Nicholas de Monchaux - This book tells the story of the development of the spacesuit that allowed astronauts to walk on the moon and includes the stories of the women who worked on its design and production.

5- "The Astronaut Wives Club" by Lily Koppel - This book tells the stories of the women who were married to the astronauts who went to space in the 1960s and 70s, and how their lives were affected by their husbands' careers.

6- "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" by Neil deGrasse Tyson - This book provides an accessible introduction to astrophysics, including the work of women like Henrietta Swan Leavitt and Vera Rubin.

7- "The Interstellar Age: Inside the Forty-Year Voyager Mission" by Jim Bell - This book tells the story of the Voyager space probes and the women who worked on the mission, including planetary scientist Carolyn Porco and engineer Candy Hansen.

These books offer a diverse range of perspectives on women in space, astronomy, the ISS, and astrophysics, and provide insight into the history and current state of these fields.

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, Appreciation and Recognition

On the success of Space Science and Astronomy in Schools-STEM Workshop for Teachers organized by the Computational Astrophysics Lab at NCBC-NEDUET on February 21-22, 2023, we would like to take a moment to express our sincere thanks to our invited speakers:

Dr. Gaitee Hussain, Head of Science Division, European Space Agency, Netherlands 

Dr. Aquib Moin, Associate professor, UAE University, UAE 

Dr. Ahmed H. Abdullah. IAU Astronomer, University of Baghdad, Iraq

Dr. Faisal ur Rahman, Member of EMU-ASKAP and WALLABY-ASKAP Radio Astronomy surveys, CTO of My Impact Meter, Lahore, Pakistan

Mr. Ghulam Mustafa Leghari, Divisional Head Astronomy, Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), Karachi, Pakistan

for their willingness to share their knowledge and experiences and their truly invaluable contribution to the event. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the teachers of the workshop for all that they did to make the workshop a valuable learning experience for our attendees.  We would like to appreciate the volunteers for their commitment to ensuring that everything ran smoothly and that our attendees were well taken care of. 

We made every effort to be inclusive and build a diverse teacher cohort. The participants were from government and private English, Urdu and Sindhi medium schools. We would like to express our sincere thanks to the participant teachers. Their dedication to the education of their students and their commitment to learning more about space science and astronomy was truly inspiring.

It was a great pleasure for us to host "Meet an IAU Astronomer"  during the workshop, which was a significant attraction for the attendees. To highlight the contributions of women in Astronomy and inspire girls and women to pursue careers in astronomy and STEM fields, we also celebrated "Girls and Women in Astronomy" during the workshop. @astromeetings @womeninSTEM

The goal of this workshop is to create a strong community of astronomy educators who can inspire the next generation of scientists and astronomers in Pakistan. By providing teachers with the knowledge, hands on experience and resources they need, we hope to promote astronomy education and encourage more students to pursue careers in STEM fields.

In the end I'd like to thank the International Astronomical Union, Office of Astronomy for Education for their support in organizing the first ever IAU OAE Astronomy teacher training workshop in Karachi, Pakistan in December 2022, which set a great example and ground for this second workshop "Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers" organized by the Computational Astrophysics Lab at NCBC-NEDUET, Karachi, Pakistan. 

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, Venue

The workshop venue is National center in Big Data and Cloud Computing, NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan. 

NCBC is 600 m (7 minute walk) away from NED Student Gate as shown in the following Google Map. 

NCBC/HPCC from NED Visitor's gate

NCBC is 750 m (10 minute walk) away from NED Maskan Gate as shown in the following Google Map. 

We look forward to seeing you at the workshop. 

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, Solar System Observations

University students can also attend these solar system observation sessions at NCBC, NED-UET, Karachi, Pakistan. 

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- Teacher Training Workshop, INVITED SPEAKER

We are very pleased to announce one of the invited speakers of Space Science and Astronomy-STEM workshop for teachers, Mr. Ghulam Mustafa. 

Stay tuned for workshop updates. 

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- Teacher Training Workshop, INVITED SPEAKER

We are very pleased to announce one of the invited speakers of Space Science and Astronomy-STEM workshop for teachers, Dr. Syed Faisal ur Rahman. 

Stay tuned for workshop updates. 

Celebrating Women and Girls in Astronomy @ Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers

In Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers at computational Astrophysics Lab, NCBC, NED-UET, we would like to recognize the role of all women in advancing science and encourage everyone on and off the gender spectrum to consider careers in astronomy.

#WomenInAstronomy #WomenInSTEM

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, Application Deadline Extension

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, application deadline has been extended till February 15, 2023. 

This workshop is organized by Computational Astrophysics Lab, National Center in Big Data and Cloud Computing, NED-UET, Karachi, Pakistan. 

We are committed to building a diversified cohort of teachers who are eager to learn new things and committed to pass on the new knowledge. Apply in this workshop to play important part in promoting Space Science and Astronomy education in Pakistan.

Meet the IAU Astronomer @ Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers

We are very pleased to host "Meet the IAU Astronomer" event at  Computational Astrophysics Lab, NCBC, NED-UET, during Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- Teacher Training Workshop. 

We are thrilled to announce our invited astronomer, Dr. Ahmed H. Abdullah from Iraq. We would like to thanks him for his support and time. 

#IAUOutreach

Space Science and Astronomy in Schools- STEM Workshop for Teachers, INVITED SPEAKERS

We are very pleased to announce two of the invited speakers of this workshop. Stay tuned to know other invited speakers of the workshop :)