FORSTER-SCHREIBER Natascha
Astrophysics
Invited Speakers
Invited Speakers
FORSTER-SCHREIBER Natascha
Max Planck Institute for extraterrestrial Physics Astrophysics About FORSTER-SCHREIBER
Dr.Natascha Förster Schreiber is a worldleading astronomer and expert in the formation and evolution of galaxies. She holds a PhD Magna Cum Laude from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Recognized internationally through prestigious fellowships and work at Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics. Pioneered research revealing rapid maturation of galaxies in early Universe, doubling estimates of massive galaxies. Introduced paradigm shift with findings on early galaxy regularity and galactic winds' impact on star formation. Instrumental in developing high-tech instruments and shaping scientific case for future observing facilities like the Extremely Large Telescope.
Sessions by FORSTER-SCHREIBER Natascha
15/04/2024 10:30-11:00
Title: E-ELT and Africa Abstract:
GEYER Marisa
University of Cape Town Astrophysics About GEYER
Dr. Marisa Geyer is a lecturer at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, specializing in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. With a background in Theoretical Physics, she has a keen interest in Astrophysics and observational Radio Astronomy, cultivated during her time at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), where she contributed to the development of the MeerKAT radio telescope. Currently, she is part of the HEPCAT team, focusing on pulsar research within the Meertime collaboration and the TRAPUM project, which aims to discover new pulsars. Passionate about advancing science and Astrophysics in South Africa, she sees projects like MeerKAT and the upcoming SKAO as pivotal in providing opportunities for aspiring scientists.
Sessions by GEYER Marisa
15/04/2024 11:00-11:30
Title: Using pulsar laboratories to do fun-damental Physics with MeerKAT Abstract:
Pulsars are rapidly spinning neutron stars, whose beamed radio emission we can observe with our own African instrument: the sensitive MeerKAT telescope. In this talk I will explain how we observe the regular pulsations from these spinning neutron stars, and use them as the stopwatches in the night sky needed to conduct tests of spacetime and gravity theories. I will give an overview of exciting MeerKAT results to date, and discuss how through the applications of high precision pulsar timing we are also making strides towards discovering the background tides of nanoHz gravitational waves, believed to be caused by a cosmic population of supermassive black holes binaries.
FOING Bernard
European Space Agency Space Science About FOING
Bernard Foing is the Chief Scientist at the European Space Agency (ESA), Executive Director of the International Lunar Exploration Working Group (ILEWG), and was Principal Project Scientist for SMART-1, the first European mission to the Moon. Foing is also an organic chemist for Mars Express, and a co-investigator of the Mars Express High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) for the Mars Express orbiter.
Sessions by FOING Bernard
15/04/2024 11:30-12:00
Title: International Lunar Exploration Abstract:
BENKHALDOUN Zouhair
Oukaimeden Observator, Cadi Ayyad university Astrophysics About BENKHALDOUN
Prof. Zouhair Benkhaldoun is an astronomer and astrophysicist who actively involved in astronomical research and education at Cadi Ayyad university. He has published numerous scientific papers and his involved in several international collaborations in the field of astronomy. As a director of Oukaimeden Observatory, he is engaged in a wide range of scientific activities and research projects. He is also actively involved in promoting astronomy education and outreach in Morocco.
Sessions by BENKHALDOUN Zouhair
15/04/2024 12:00-12:30
Title: The space sciences: an opportunity for African astronomy Abstract:
Satellite tracking and space debris observation have become critical aspects of space exploration, highlighting the need for enhanced capabilities and international cooperation. In recent years, the
Oukaimeden Observatory in Morocco has made exceptional progress in these areas, positioning itself as a regional leader in satellite tracking and space debris monitoring.
As the number of satellites in orbit increases, concerns about light pollution caused by satellite constellations are also growing, which can have a significant impact on observational astronomy.
Recognizing this challenge, the International Astronomical Union's Centre for the Protection of the Sky (IAU-CPS) is at the forefront of efforts to mitigate the effects of satellite mega-constellations on astronomical observations. Located in the High Atlas Mountains, the Oukaimeden Observatory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and expertise that enable precise monitoring of satellites and space debris. With advanced telescopes and tracking systems, the observatory plays a crucial role in providing observation data and analysis scripts in this sector.
Furthermore, the strategic location of the observatory offers a unique perspective for observing objects in geostationary, low Earth, and polar orbits. This comprehensive coverage allows researchers
at Oukaimeden to track a wide range of satellites and debris, providing valuable data to space agencies and operators worldwide. By contributing to global efforts to catalog and monitor space
objects, the observatory helps mitigate the risk of collisions and reduce the generation of new debris, thus promoting the long-term sustainability of space activities.
In addition to its instrumental role in satellite tracking and space debris management, the Oukaimeden Observatory is a center for research and scientific collaboration. Its team of qualified scientists
conducts innovative research in fields such as astrophysics, planetary science, and atmospheric studies, further enhancing Morocco's reputation as a center of excellence in space sciences.
Moreover, the observatory actively collaborates with international partners and participates in collaborative projects aimed at deepening our understanding of the universe. Through our efforts to
join some initiatives such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project and the European Space Agency's Space Situational Awareness (SSA) program, Oukaimeden can provide valuable data and
expertise to global exploration and monitoring efforts of the universe. This contribution presents a vision of how the Oukaimeden Observatory illustrates the significant
potential of African astronomy in the field of satellite tracking and space debris management. Through its state-of-the-art facilities, innovative research, and international collaboration, the
observatory stimulates innovation and excellence in space sciences while positioning Africa as a key player in the global space community. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the universe,
Oukaimeden stands as a beacon of scientific success and as an illustration of the limitless opportunities offered by space sciences for African astronomy. It thus serves as a catalyst for the development of Astronomy on the African continent by leveraging the significant resources generated by space sciences in general.
SZABO Robert
Research Centre for Astronomy and Earth Sciences Stellar Physics About SZABO
Prof. Robert Szabo serves as an astronomer and director at the Konkoly Observatory in Budapest, overseeing Hungary's largest astronomical institute with a team of over 60 researchers. The institute boasts multiple ERC grants, GINOP projects, Lendület, Élvonal projects, and various other initiatives. Prof. Szabo's primary research focuses on stellar pulsations, delving into the intricate "voices" of stars. These oscillations yield valuable insights into stellar structure and internal processes, akin to how seismic waves help geophysicists map Earth's interior. Through observation, analysis, and interpretation of these pulsations, astrophysicists gain unprecedented access to the inner workings of distant celestial bodies.
Sessions by SZABO Robert
15/04/2024 18:00-18:15
Title: Variable stars in the era of space photometry and large sky surveys Abstract:
I will overview the recent observational and theoretical progress on Cepheids and RR Lyrae stars.
The topic was revolutionized by the space photometric data thanks to the quasi-continuous and ultra-precise photometric measurements delivered by CoRoT, Kepler/K2 and
TESS. New dynamical phenomnena were discovered and research of old problems got new impetus. I will also highlight
the promise of ongoing and future large sky survey programs, like Gaia and LSST.
KOLENBERG Katrien
Univeritiy Leuven Stellar Physics About KOLENBERG
Sessions by KOLENBERG Katrien
15/04/2024 18:15-18:30
Title: Gaia astronomy/Variables Stars Abstract:
BENHIDA Abdelmajid
Cadi Ayyad University Stellar Physics About BENHIDA
Dr Abdelmajid Benhida, Professor, PhD at Montpellier University in France and Doctorat d'ètat at Cadi Ayyad university Morocco , my research interests are in observational astronomy, Stellar physics and especially in variable stars . I am
actively involved in public outreach and science popularization programs. Organizer of an inclusion program by astronomy for rural girls in Morocco.-IAU member . AfAS Outreach committee member-Arab Astronomical Society Member- Conference Co Chair AfAS 2024.
Sessions by BENHIDA Abdelmajid
16/04/2024 08:30-09:00
Title: Success and challenges in the astronomy Outreach programme in Morocco Abstract:
Astronomy, more than any other discipline, opens the doors of the imagination to the
most distant horizons in time and space, while offering shows of incomparable beauty. It
arouses the curiosity of young people and the adult public, naturally immersing them in
recent discoveries about the universe, thus raising questions that fuel their desire to learn
more. In Morocco, astronomy has seen remarkable growth over the past 30 years.
I describe in this talk our experience of the last years for the dissemination and
popularization of astronomy awareness programs conducted in Morocco through these three
axes:
-Inclusive Astronomy
-The use of Oukaimeden Observatory remote observing facilities for training
STEM and Education
-Outreach Public Events
POVIC Mirjana
Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute Astrophysics About POVIC
Mirjana Pović is a Serbian-Spanish astrophysicist, working as an assistant professor at the Ethiopian Space Science and Technology Institute (ESSTI), an associate researcher at the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía in Spain, and as an honorary lecturer at Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda. She obtained her PhD in astrophysics in 2010 from the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (Spain). Her main research interests are galaxy formation and evolution, in particular nuclear activity in galaxies, star formation, morphological classification of galaxies, and galaxy clusters. In addition, over more than 10 years, she worked on development in astronomy, science, and education in different parts of Africa, through different projects and initiatives related to research collaborations, education, institutional development, human capacity building, policy development, and women in science. She is a current secretary of the IAU Division C on Education, Outreach and Heritage, African Astronomical Society Science Committee member, co-convener of the Astrophysics and Cosmology Working Group under the African Strategy for Fundamental and Applied Physics, and founder of the African Network of Women in Astronomy. She received several awards and recognitions for her scientific achievements and contribution to society, in particular for her work in Africa, including the 2018 inaugural Nature Research Award for Inspiring Science, and the 2021 inaugural European Astronomical Society Jocelyn Bell Burnell Inspiration Medal. She believes that through education, science, and technology we can combat poverty in the long term and make our world to be a better place for everyone in the future, regardless of where the children are born.
Sessions by POVIC Mirjana
16/04/2024 09:00-09:30
Title: Rethinking astronomy in conflict contexts and war anxiety Abstract:
We are facing difficult times in which heavy wars and conflicts are
affecting different parts of our planet and are putting into question
our morality and what we have learned as humanity from the past and from our previous mistakes. Many countries in Africa are not excluded from political instability, conflicts or wars, and violence that has become normalized. Under such conditions, education and science are strongly affected. We rarely talk openly about how, under conditions of conflict and war anxiety, intense fear, constant stress, persistent worry, and hopelessness, astronomy research and education can be performed. Under such conditions, "What is the role of astronomy in making our world a better place?" becomes a real and challenging question that needs much rethinking. This talk aims to give more visibility to the challenges we face when we do research and teach astronomy in conflict contexts. It also aims to remind us that, in such contexts, astronomy must be used more than ever to constantly transmit the message that we all live under the same sky and to promote peace-building. This talk will also provide a list of recommendations on how we as a scientific community can
support our colleagues and students working and living in
conflict-affected areas, and will open the space to think about new
initiatives by providing a list of suggestions.
19/04/2024 09:00-09:30
Title: Abstract:
TAYLOR Russ
Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy Astrophysics About TAYLOR
Russ Taylor, an accomplished academic, holds a B.Sc in Astronomy from the University of Western Ontario and a Ph.D. in Physics (Radio Astronomy) from the University of British Columbia. He is currently a Professor Emeritus and Senior Research Scholar at the University of Cape Town. From 2014 to 2024, he served as the founding Director of the South African Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy and a South African Joint Research Chair in Radio Astronomy. Prior to this, he held positions at the University of Calgary and directed the Institute for Space Imaging Science. Throughout his career, Taylor has been deeply involved in international astronomy initiatives, notably as a key figure in the Square Kilometre Array Project. He has authored numerous scientific articles, mentored many young scientists, and played a crucial role in the VSOP space mission.
Sessions by TAYLOR Russ
17/04
Title: Abstract:
MILAM Stephanie
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Planetary Science About MILAM
Dr. Milam works in the Astrochemistry Laboratory at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. She is an expert in rotational spectroscopy, observations, and laboratory modeling of astrochemistry and molecular astrophysics of the interstellar medium, evolved stars, star formation regions, and comets. Her observational focus is on the compositional studies of primitive bodies, namely comets and interstellar objects, and uses ground- and space-based facilities to understand their connection to the formation and evolution of planetary systems. She also has a laboratory dedicated to simulating interstellar/cometary/planetary ices and detect trace species employing the same techniques used for remote observations to help constrain the chemical complexity of the ices, the amount of processing that occurs, and interpret past and present data from missions that observe ice features. Dr. Milam has been working on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) as Deputy Project Scientist for Planetary Science since 2014. Under this role she has helped enable observations within our own solar system from Near-Earth Asteroids to the farthest reaches of the Kuiper belt and even the brightest objects in the infrared sky (e.g. Mars). In 2021, she was honored with asteroid 40706 (1999 RO240) was renamed to 40706 Milam. She received the NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal in 2022 for her work on enabling Solar System Science with JWST.
Sessions by MILAM Stephanie
17/04/2024 09:00-09:30
Title: Planetary Science with JWST Abstract:
In late 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was launched into space on an Ariane 5 rocket from French Guiana. Over 25 years in the making, JWST has been one of the most challenging programs, but also extremely rewarding, in its first year of operations for NASA, ESA, and CSA as well as for all astronomers and the public. This telescope has unprecedented sensitivity and angular resolution and will be the premier space-based facility for near- and mid-infrared (0.6-28.5 µm) astronomy over the next few decades. JWST has a 6.5-meter primary mirror and is equipped with four state-of-the-art instruments which include imaging, spectroscopy, and coronagraphy modes. These instruments are already returning amazing spectra and images of small and large bodies in our solar system, revealing the composition and dynamic processes of these objects not readily accessible with other observatories or even planetary missions.
Within the first year of science operations, JWST has already provided fundamental insight into the composition and dynamics of planetary/satellite atmospheres/exospheres and rings as well as the composition of small bodies, the distribution of volatiles and processed materials across the different reservoirs, and new insights into the formation of the solar system. More importantly, new phenomena and questions are already emerging, revolutionizing this area of research. The nominal launch and efficient operations in place ensure a JWST science mission lifetime of up to 20 years, enabling new discoveries and exploration for future generations. This presentation will highlight some of the amazing science in the solar system being revealed in the first 2 years of operations.
BENVENUTI Piero
University Of Padua Space Science About BENVENUTI
Sessions by BENVENUTI Piero
17/04/2024 18:00-18:20
Title: Abstract:
RAWLS Meredith
Department of Astronomy, University of Washington Space Science About RAWLS
Sessions by RAWLS Meredith
17/04/2024 18:20-18:40
Title: Impacts of Bright Satellites on Ground-Based Optical Astronomy and Our Sky Abstract:
SIMMONS Mike
Astronomers Without Borders Astronomy and Education About SIMMONS
Mike Simmons has been an amateur astronomer and outreach leader for 50 years. Recognizing astronomy as a universal interest that transcends cultural differences, Mike founded Astronomers Without Borders in 2006 to unite astronomy and space enthusiasts worldwide through their common interests. He is currently an Affiliate Research Scientist at Blue Marble Space Institute of Science where he is creating programs addressing issues of diversity and inclusion using astronomy and space, Astronomy for Equity. He is a founding member of the Overview Institute, a member of the board directors of the International Dark-Sky Association, serves on the Outreach Committee of the African Astronomical Society and the IAU Working Group on Diversity and Inclusion. He regularly gives presentations, both in the US and abroad, on using astronomy to improve international relations and reduce inequity. Mike has received numerous awards for his work in the field, including having Minor Planet Simmons (22294) named in his honor in 2003. Mike was also awarded the prestigious 2014 Gabrielle and Camille Flammarion Prize from the Société Astronomique de France (SAF) for “setting a worldwide example that astronomy does transcend political and cultural borders.”
Sessions by SIMMONS Mike
18/04/2024 08:30-09:00
Title: Improving Lives, Communities, and Societies with Astronomy Abstract:
Astronomy is unique among the sciences. It is accessible to everyone, touches on all sciences, is a part of every culture, provides perspective on our place on Earth and in the cosmos, inspires us, and has passionate volunteer outreach groups everywhere.
These unique characteristics give astronomy the ability to improve lives far more broadly than any other science. This presentation will describe the many ways in which astronomy is used to improve the lives of individuals, communities, and societies with examples from around the world. It will also introduce the programs of a new initiative, Astronomy for Equity (A4E), as examples of programs that others can develop or take part in.
Astronomy is a gateway science for marginalized and disadvantaged communities that lack opportunities in STEM education. In developing countries and rural areas that lack STEM facilities, the astronomy “laboratory” overhead is always accessible. Minority communities, disabled people, women in many societies, and others who are often discouraged from pursuing careers in STEM fields can find access and inspiration through astronomy. Societies benefit from this diversity in STEM fields, with more robust workforce in science and technology. From the IAU’s Office of Astronomy for Development to astronomy outreach groups, myriad organizations provide free programs benefiting communities that aren’t reached by larger NGOs. A4E is working to augment these programs and empower existing groups by providing key resources. For example, five middle school astronomy clubs created by a national NGO in Libya with Ministry of Education support were very active but lacked telescopes, which A4E provided through crowdfunding.
Astronomy is inspirational. Students introduced to science through astronomy, whether in formal and informal education settings, might consider STEM careers they had felt were out of reach for them. Outreach programs and workshops for students with little exposure to hands-on science, in low-income areas lacking facilities, or in social groups traditionally underrepresented can show the way. In areas of conflict can find needed reprieve in the stars. For example, A4E responded to a request for telescopes from astronomy students in Ukraine through a crowdfunding campaign. Astronomy has been shown to be beneficial for mental health, particularly important for students like these who are under enormous stress and feel their future slipping away after two years of war. Astronomy outreach events also provide a chance for the public to learn about science and its relevance to their own daily lives.
Astronomy is universal. A4E has provided students in technical majors at a university in Benghazi, Libya an opportunity to conduct a science research project through collaboration with the educational component of a global research telescope network, Las Cumbres Observatory. The students are part of a university astronomy club but not astronomy majors. Astronomy provided an opportunity to learn science research methodology applicable to all of their fields. This program will be expanded soon.
The stars are for everyone. Astronomy programs for the disabled are conducted by groups worldwide, from amateur astronomers to NASA facilities. Resources and methods are readily available for bringing astronomy and related sciences to blind and low vision people but awareness and implementation are lacking. A4E is creating a community to share these resources and train outreach groups. Astronomy terms have been developed in many sign languages allowing deaf people. A4E is developing do-it-yourself plans for a telescope mount that allows easy access for people in wheelchairs. Astronomy can and should be accessible to all.
We all share the same sky. Astronomy creates community through our common passion for, and heritage of, the cosmos. These connections are particularly important for isolated individuals and communities. The understanding that comes from learning about others encourages peaceful interaction between cultures. Empathy from personal connections leads to sharing resources with those less fortunate. Examples from the author’s personal experience will be included in the presentation.
Astronomy shows us our place in the Universe and the planetary nature of our existence. This is a profound experience for many. When astronauts view Earth from space they see it as a planet among the stars, transforming their understanding of our existence on Earth. This paradigm shift is known as the Overview Effect. Astronomy does the same for those of us who are Earthbound, especially when we connect with others who share our passion for the sky that we all share. This is a critical perspective for humanity while facing global challenges that require global responses, such as climate change.
Could astronomy save the world? Probably not but the potential for improving our existence on Earth is essentially unlimited, like the Universe we explore by looking up and out from Earth.
SIKHOSANA Sinenhlanhla
University of KwaZulu-Natal Astrophysics About SIKHOSANA
Dr. Sinenhlanhla Sikhosana is a Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Dr Sikhosana’s research expertise is in observational radio astronomy, focusing on radio interferometry techniques for data calibration, analysis of galaxy clusters at radio wavelength, and correlation of radio and X-ray emission in clusters. She is also passionate about growing the astronomy community. As a result, she is an executive committee member of the African Astronomical Society, an outreach and DEI committee member at UKZN’s astrophysics research centre, and is involved in numerous UKZN public relations activities.
Sessions by SIKHOSANA Sinenhlanhla
18/04/2024 09:00-09:30
Title: The Space Odyssey with Ritu and Precious Abstract:
The Space Odyssey is a travelling telescope initiative which visits primary schools around Durban, South Africa, with the aim of igniting the love of astronomy from an early age. This initiative is part of the outreach activities of the Astrophysics Research Centre (ARC). Our centre prides itself in creating an inclusive environment for all. However, our diversity and inclusion principles were put to the test in September 2023. We were invited to take the travelling telescope to schools of the deaf and blind. Such an invitation forced us to think beyond our everyday astronomy outreach activities while mockingly revealing our ignorance. Are we really diverse in our outreach endeavours? In this talk, I will highlight how we overcame this enormous challenge of explaining the stars and planets to learners with special abilities.
BARATOUX David
French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development Planetary Science About BARATOUX
David Baratoux is researcher affilated with the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development. His research interest lies in the evolution and differentiation of planetary crusts, with a particular emphasis on volcanic, impact, and surface processes. The primary objective of his research is to comprehend the distribution of chemical elements within the crust at various scales, encompassing extreme concentrations of metals, such as ore deposits of economic significance. A significant drive behind his research endeavors is to foster collaborations with scientists in developing countries, concentrating on research areas aligned with the most urgent issues in these regions.
In this vein, he spearheaded the International Joint Laboratory for Responsible Mining in West Africa (MINERWA) from 2019 to 2023, which has been renewed for a further 5-year term (2024-2029). Additionally, he holds the position of chair in the International Research Network AFIPS (African Initiative for Planetary and Space Science, 2024-2028), which engages planetary scientists from 11 African countries. Currently based in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, at the University Félix Houphouët-Boigny.
He boasts authorship or co-authorship of 117 peer-reviewed publications, including several letters in Nature, with 8405 citations and an h-index of 45, as per Google Scholar. Over the course of his career, he has supervised or co-supervised 17 PhD students, six of whom have secured positions in academic research. Furthermore, he has co-authored two books for the general public and is actively involved in writing articles and delivering public lectures.
Sessions by BARATOUX David
18/04/2024 16:30-16:45
Title: The Africa Initiative for Planetary and Space Science-Achievements and perspectives Abstract:
The African Initiative for Planetary and Space Science (AFIPS) was launched in 2017 and endorsed by several institutions and more than 300 scientists worldwide. As a network, it aims to form and maintain an African community of planetary and space scientists and to favor the elaboration of ambitious research projects based on the strong assets of the continent for planetary and space sciences. It also aims to strengthen outreach activities in planetary and space sciences. The achievements that have been developed in the wake of the AFIPS will be replaced in the context of vibrant developments of astrophysics in Africa. Success stories, such as the occultation campaigns in support of Solar System Exploration in Senegal, the search of meteorite impact structures and tektites in West Africa or the installation of camera networks for the detection of meteors will be highlighted. A new proposal, involving 18 institutions, has been submitted to support the expansion of the network. The specificity of this new proposal (https://africapss.org/activities/) is to focus on the sciences of the Universe having synergies with geosciences: early history of the Earth and planets, the coupling between internal, surface and atmospheric processes, comparative planetology, geological mapping of planetary surfaces, the Earth within its environment, including Sun-Earth interactions, meteors, meteorites, impact craters and their consequences on crustal evolution. These research activities have well-identified impacts on society and address at least 3 Sustainable Development Goals (4, 10 and 16). In particular, through the transfer of skills and how these skills can be successfully integrated into a range of problem-solving actions, while at same time raising public outreach in collaboration with associations for the promotion of science. The emerging group is increasingly involved in promoting and protecting the under-explored geo-heritage of the African continent (meteorites, impact structures, geological sites).
EL-MAARRY Mohamed Ramy
Khalifa University Planetary Science About EL-MAARRY
Dr. El-Maarry earned his bachelors degree in Geology and Chemistry in Cairo University. He followed it up with two European masters degrees in Sweden and France, and a PhD in Goettingen University in Germany for his work at the Max-Planck institute for solar system research.
Dr El-Maarry has been involved with numerous space missions since 2006 for both ESA, NASA, and recently the UAE Space Agency. These missions include the European Rosetta mission to comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, NASA’s New Horizons mission that explores Kuiper Belt Objects at the edge of our solar system and the Emirates Lunar Rover mission, in addition to being on the science teams for numerous other active and future missions including the HiRISE and CaSSIS imagers onboard NASA’s MRO and ESA’s TGO missions, respectively, and the upcoming UAE mission to the Asteroid Belt, and numerous ESA missions including Comet Interceptor, and the planetary defense mission Hera. He is currently the director of the “Space and Planetary Science Center” and an associate professor of planetary sciences at Khalifa University in the United Arab Emirates. His research covers planetary surfaces with a focus on geomorphology and associated physical processes using a multi-disciplinary approach that involves data analysis of remote sensing data, modeling, lab work and comparative planetology mainly through fieldwork.
Sessions by EL-MAARRY Mohamed Ramy
18/04/2024 16:45-17:00
Title: Small bodies in our solar system: Current state of knowledge and the path forwards Abstract:
Small bodies hold important clues to our understanding of solar system formation, particularly with reference to the early conditions in various locations in the Solar nebula. Furthermore, understanding their dynamical history offers insights into both planetary formation and evolutionary models, as well as exoplanetary systems. In this talk, I plan to review the current state of knowledge, and the lessons learnt from a number of recent space missions to various small bodies (asteroids, comets, KBOs, etc). I also attempt to chart a path forwards for exploring the current open questions about these bodies.
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