Astronomy group in Dubai opens a bright new world of stars to children

Staff Report (Gulf News)
Published: August 03, 2008, 15:04
Dubai: It's stargazing time for children. Dubai Astronomy Group is imparting astronomy lessons to children of various age groups at the Children's City on Thursdays. The group, led by its President Hasan Ahmad Al Hariri, teaches children every Thursday from 7pm to 8.30pm stargazing techniques, using an advanced telescope. 
The programme forms part of Children's City summer activities, which began on June 19 and will go on till end of August. 

According to Al Hariri, stargazing is richly embedded in Arabian culture. "It is part of our tradition. We pray with the sun, we fast with the moon and we know in which direction to pray through the stars. Whether navigating on land or sea, stars have always been used. Even to tell which day, month or the time at night, stars are used," he said. 
"There is not enough education about astronomy in schools which is why we are willing to help children in whatever ways possible. Our tie-up with Children's City is part of these efforts."