The fourth edition of Katara Space Science Program (KSSP) kicked off, Tuesday, at Al Thuraya Planetarium in Katara. The event is organized by the Cultural Village Foundation-Katara in collaboration with MAPS International, with the attendance of a number of those interested in the field of science and space.
During the program period extending until Sept. 26, participants will have a valuable opportunity to engage in dialogue with experts, gain deep insights, and increase awareness and education about space sciences.
Space scientist from the University of Southern California and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Dr. Essam Heggy, spoke in the program about his scientific and professional career in the field of space. He pointed out the most important projects and research in which he participated, most notably his participation in photographing the internal composition of the ice layers on the planet Mars, which proved the presence of water on Mars for long periods similar to planet Earth.
Dr. Heggy also highlighted his interest in the desert in the Gulf region, especially the State of Qatar, pointing to the study conducted by scientists and researchers, confirming the strong evidence of the existence of an oasis dating back more than 3,600 years in Qatar, covering an area of 2 to 3 kilometers, in southern Qatar.
For her part, Director of the Cryogenic Upper Stage Project at the Indian Space Agency, Dr. Lalitha Ramachandran provided a historical overview of Indias interest in space, which began in 1962, when the first administrative building was built, which has now been transformed into a space museum visited by thousands every year.
Director of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, Dr. K.C., delivered a public lecture on the history of space exploration, highlighting key contributors and significant missions. He also discussed important space vehicles and telescopes, including the Hubble and James Webb telescopes, offering valuable insights into the field.
The fourth edition of KSSP was accompanied by the ‘Cosmic Canvas – Space Art’ exhibition, which will continue until Oct. 18. It includes original printed artworks from NASA, holographic art, and visual art by artist Mariam Hashemi Brian and other artists
Source: Qatar News Agency