Members of the American University of Sharjah (AUS) Board of Trustees and senior university officials visited the Sharjah Centre for Space Sciences and Astronomy yesterday, June 14, 2015.

The new facility, the region's largest planetarium, was constructed at the instructions of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah and President of AUS, to inspire a new generation of Arab astronauts and researchers.

Topped with a magnificent golden dome that represents the sun, the center is surrounded by gardens that symbolize the solar system.

In addition to an interesting presentation of planets, stars and celestial objects on the dome-shaped projection screen, the planetarium's officials and astrophysicists also presented a special 25-minute documentary, based on the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, entitled Deen Al Qayeema (The Religion of Value), which depicted the spread of Islam through a narration of Quranic verses offering viewers a journey into the past.

The center is an important addition to the UAE's education strategy to support space exploration and to develop the country's scientific capabilities and contributions. Part of the UAE's space strategy is the 2021 Mars Exploration Mission (EMX). A considerable number of AUS graduates hold leading positions in EMX including four team leaders.