The Emirates Meteor Observation Network documents a shower "Draconids" In cooperation with "NASA"
Abu Dhabi, October 13 / WAM / The Emirates Meteor and Meteor Observation Network (UACN), affiliated with the International Astronomy Center, achieved a new scientific achievement represented by documenting a remarkable meteor shower activity, in a step that reflects the country’s leadership in the field of astronomical observation and the promotion of international scientific cooperation.
The announcement of this observation came in an official telegram issued by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), prepared by Dr. Peter Jeniskens from the AMES Center of the American Space Agency (NASA), and Engineer Mohammed Odeh, Director of the International Astronomy Center in Abu Dhabi.
The cable explained that the Emirates Network for Meteor and Meteor Observation was able to monitor a short peak of the “Dragons” meteor shower, named after the “Dragon” star cluster, on the evening of October 8, as this phenomenon precisely matched the predictions of an astronomer that was published in a scientific research on October 3.
The cable indicated that the meteors that were monitored were the result of dust grains that escaped from the comet “Giacobini-Zener” in 2012, and these tiny particles remained swimming in the comet’s orbit until the Earth entered the same dust belt on the evening of October 8, which led to the appearance of this distinctive meteor shower.
The importance of these precise astronomical observations lies in the fact that they provide scientists with valuable information about the distribution of dust grains in the solar system, which contributes to understanding the nature of the comets that cause them and predicting their paths, in addition to assessing the possibility of them posing a threat to Earth.
Monitoring this data early allows researchers to take scientific measures to reduce potential damage if large comets approach the planet.
This achievement confirms the advanced position that the UAE has reached in the field of astronomy and space sciences, and its ability to conduct accurate scientific observations in cooperation with prestigious international institutions such as NASA.
This event also embodies the country’s ambitious vision to be one of the leading countries in observing the sky and understanding cosmic phenomena, thus enhancing its presence in the international scientific community and opening the way for the next generation of researchers to participate in pioneering global research projects.
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