Meteorite Center
About
Meteorite Center
The Meteorite Center at the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) is unique in the Gulf region and specializes in searching and analyzing meteorites. In the meteorite center, sample “meteorites” are analyzed to be checked for their authenticity.
The laboratory has five main instruments: (1) Petrothin Thin Sectioning System, (2) IsoMet 1000 Precision Saw, (3) Olympus Polarizing Microscope, (4) Nikon Stereoscopic Zoom Microscope, and (5) A handheld/portable XRF Spectrometer. The laboratory will do some preliminary physical tests before sending the samples to the University of Sharjah “Advanced Materials Research” laboratory to run sophisticated tests such as XRF, XRD, SEM-EDS, and Raman tests to come up with the exact mineral composition of the samples. These tests are crucial to determine the nature of the sample as a meteorite or a meteorwrong.
In addition to analysis, the center also conducts meteorite research through a curated collection of more than 8,000 meteorites used for research and education.
The laboratory has five main instruments: (1) Petrothin Thin Sectioning System, (2) IsoMet 1000 Precision Saw, (3) Olympus Polarizing Microscope, (4) Nikon Stereoscopic Zoom Microscope, and (5) A handheld/portable XRF Spectrometer. The laboratory will do some preliminary physical tests before sending the samples to the University of Sharjah “Advanced Materials Research” laboratory to run sophisticated tests such as XRF, XRD, SEM-EDS, and Raman tests to come up with the exact mineral composition of the samples. These tests are crucial to determine the nature of the sample as a meteorite or a meteorwrong.
In addition to analysis, the center also conducts meteorite research through a curated collection of more than 8,000 meteorites used for research and education.
Main Objectives
- To observe and analyze meteors using the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network.
- To conduct meteorites search and analysis in the United Arab Emirates.
- To develop a Space Situational Awareness (SSA) program in the United Arab Emirates.
Our mission
We monitor, collect and analyze
- Support the “Space Situational Awareness” program of the UAE.
- Enhance and develop the meteorites analysis sector in the UAE.
- Aspire to build up a generation of highly qualified research professionals.
- Promote research and education in planetary science.
- Support researchers, university students, and the wider community.
- Raise the knowledge and awareness of the meteorite’s hazards.
Our vision
A better understanding of meteorites
We are driving the UAE to be among the top countries in the world in meteorite research and public outreach.
Laboratory Main Instruments
The Meteorite Center at the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) is unique in the Gulf region and specializes in searching and analyzing meteorites.
Meteorite
Meteorite Analysis Laboratory
Sample meteorites are examined for their authenticity. The laboratory has five main instruments: (1) Petrothin Thin Sectioning System, (2) IsoMet 1000 Precision Saw, (3) Olympus Polarizing Microscope, (4) Nikon Stereoscopic Zoom Microscope, and (5) a handheld/portable XRF Spectrometer.
Handheld/Portable XRF Spectrometer
XRF stands for X-ray fluorescence, a powerful, nondestructive technique that can quantify or qualify the elemental composition of a sample. This portable device can be used either in the lab or directly in the field.
IsoMet 1000 Precision Saw
This is a precision-sectioning saw designed for cutting various types of materials. It offers the appropriate blade size, load, and increased controlled speed to cut samples quickly and with less damage.
PetroThin Thin Sectioning System
The PetroThin Sectioning System is easy and precise for resectioning and thinning various samples, such as rocks, minerals, ceramics, cement, etc., to characterize materials.
Olympus Polarizing Microscope
The Olympus polarizing microscope ensures secure, operational, and outstanding optical performance. It provides optimal performance for polarized light applications, using a combination of UIS2 infinity-corrected optics and distinctive optical design.
Nikon Stereoscopic Zoom Microscope
This powerful stereo microscope provides excellent optical performance, such as high magnification, high-zoom ratio, high-resolution images, and advanced operability.
UAE Meteor Monitoring Network
This network consists of three identical towers placed at three locations (Sharjah, Yahar, and Liwa) to cover most of the UAE sky. Each tower consists of 17 cameras that span the sky from sunset to sunrise to observe any possible meteors or human-made falling satellite debris. Once a meteor is detected, the network will analyze and determine its orbit, magnitude, and whether a meteor belongs to a specific type of shower.
