The Space and Astronomy Club at Faculty of Science at Sohag University organized an exploratory trip to Fayoum Governorate to observe the alignment of the planets Jupiter and Mars.
This is within the framework of the scientific and educational activities organized by the club with the aim of providing an educational and interactive environment that enables students to apply astronomical knowledge practically.
Dr. Hassan Al-Nomany, President of the University, said that the Astronomy and Space Technology Club at Sohag University is the first of its kind in Upper Egypt, and combines advanced student and research activities.
Alnpmany explained that the university is keen to eliminate astronomical illiteracy among students, and to familiarize them with the basics of astronomy and
He drew their attention to many astronomical phenomena, in order to encourage them to conduct scientific research in the field of astronomy, keep pace with scientific developments, and graduate human cadres suitable for the requirements of the contemporary labor market.
Dr. Hazem Al-Mashnab, Dean of Faculty of Science, explained that the club was established under the supervision of the faculty and aims to spread astronomical awareness and enhance the love of exploration among students, and to provide programs and activities that enrich knowledge of astronomy and space sciences.
He added that during the observation, information was explained to the students about the planet Jupiter and some stellar phenomena, and the differences between stars and planets in the sky of our planet were clarified and how to distinguish between them, as well as stellar phenomena.
Dr. Kamal Talab, the club’s academic supervisor, added that a distinguished astronomical observation of a group of cosmic phenomena was organized, and included monitoring the alignment of the planets Jupiter and Mars in a rare astronomical scene, as the two planets appeared in a straight line in the sky, which gave students the opportunity to understand the phenomenon of planetary alignment in a practical way.
The phases of the full moon were documented using the club’s telescopes, amidst an atmosphere of scientific passion and fruitful astronomical discussions.
It is worth noting that the trip was attended by 50 male and female students and also included a visit to Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum, in an introductory tour about the secrets of building the pyramids and astronomy among the ancient Egyptians, where they saw archaeological artifacts that reflect the development of astronomical knowledge among the Pharaohs, such as time-determining tools and ancient Egyptian calendars.