In this short feature, we highlight how the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) are using techniques such as XRF, XRD, SEM-EDS, and Raman tests to determine the mineral composition of meteorites.
“Inside the Laboratory” is a joint series with LCGC and Spectroscopy, profiling analytical scientists and their research groups at universities all over the world. This series spotlights the current chromatographic and spectroscopic research their groups are conducting, and the importance of their research in analytical chemistry and specific industries. In this short feature, we highlight how the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST, United Arab Emirates [UAE]) are using techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and Raman spectroscopy tests to determine the mineral composition of meteorites.
The Meteorite Center at SAASST focuses on analyzing the mineral composition of meteorite samples that are collected by scientists. Established in 2017, making it the first institution in the Gulf region solely focused on studying meteorites and undertaking space-science research, the Center also strives to develop and promote the education of astronomy and space science not only in the UAE, but also the Arab world more broadly (1).
To that end, SAASST is comprised of several buildings, each with a specific purpose in mind. Apart from the research center, SAASST also features a planetarium, astronomy exhibition, an observatory, and a Cosmic Park. These buildings are open to students, educators, researchers, and families, who all come to SAASST for research or education purposes.
There are three main objectives of the SAASST. The first is to analyze meteors and meteorites using the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network. The second objective is to conduct searches for meteorites for the purposes of gathering samples for analysis (1). Third, the SAASST is geared toward building a Space Situational Awareness (SSA) program in the UAE, which in turn will help grow this branch of science in the country (1).
One of the main successes of SAASST researchers so far is using machine learning (ML) algorithms to optimize and improve their drone meteorite system (DMS). SAASST has also built several types of neural network architectures to analyze the amount of data being generated by their instruments. Particularly in applications involving visual data and computer vision, convolution neural networks (CNNs), a type of deep learning model, have been used (2).
These deep learning algorithms have been developed in their Space Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (SAIL) (3). SAASST researchers have been able to use these algorithms to help differentiate earthly rocks from meteorites by training their model on the meteorite collection at SAASST and on the rocks collected from the surrounding area of Sharjah (3).
The Meteorite Center at SAASST stands out as an institution in meteorites and planetary science within the Gulf region. With its extensive and varied collection, advanced laboratory capabilities, and active engagement in observation (through UAEMMN) and public outreach, it bridges research, education, and community interest in space science and astronomy (1).
Of particular note is the Center’s collection of meteorites available for researchers to analyze and study. These meteorites range from enormous iron meteorites to rare lunar and Martian specimens, tektites, and impactites, which provide astronomers, geologists, and students with direct access to extraterrestrial materials rarely available in the region (1). Through systematic cataloguing and digital archiving, the Center is building a resource that could support long-term international research collaborations.
By combining meteorite analysis, meteor monitoring, workshops, and seminars, including collaborations with global experts, the Center helps place the UAE on the map in the field of planetary science and fosters a new generation of scientists interested in space, geology, and the origins of the solar system.
You can read more about the Meteorite Center at SAASST
