Prof. Hamid Al-Naimiy gave an opening speech welcoming HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan and the two astronauts to the academy. He also gave an overall view of the University of Sharjah as well as the academy. Dr. Ilias Fernini (Deputy General Director for Research Laboratories and Observatories) and his research assistants (Mr. Ibrahim Al-Sabt, Ms. Noora Al-Ameri, Ms. Maryam Eissa, Ms. Tarifa Al-Kaabi, Ms. Asmaa Abdulsalam, and Aisha Al-Owais) presented, in brief, the different research laboratories (Optical Observatory, CubeSat, Meteorites, Space Weather, and Radio Astronomy). Mr. Marwan Shwaiki (Deputy General Director for the Planetarium) gave a brief star gazing session before the presentation of the “Din Al-Qayima” planetarium, a show written by HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan.

HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan highlighted the scientific and academic role of SAASST and emphasized on the scientific cooperation among the different UAE universities. HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan was delighted with the experience of Mr. Hazza during his first space trip to the International Space Station and expressed his enthusiasm to see more accomplishments for the UAE in its space sciences program.