Muscat: The National Museum today hosted the "National Symposium on Documenting Omani Astronomical Heritage," in partnership with the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space.
The event was held under the patronage of Salem Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, who also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Museum. It attracted a diverse group of researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to the study of astronomical heritage.
The symposium's objective was to unite individuals from various scientific backgrounds who share an interest in Omani astronomical heritage, facilitating a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experiences related to the preservation and documentation of this vital aspect of Oman's historical narrative. Furthermore, the event aimed to enhance awareness of the importance of this heritage in the lives of Omanis and to introduce its rich and varied dimensions to future generations, including its applications in agriculture, fishing, navigation, and climate.
In his address, Dr. Issa Yahya Al Shuaili, Chairman of the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, remarked, "This National Symposium underscores the significance of Omani astronomical heritage as a crucial element of our rich history, showcasing the profound understanding our ancestors had of astronomy and its vital influence on their daily activities, including navigation, agriculture, and the management of Aflaj (irrigation systems)."
He further emphasized that safeguarding this scientific and cultural heritage transcends mere documentation of the past; it is a vital step toward reinforcing national identity and utilizing ancestral knowledge to advance contemporary studies in astronomy. This vision aligns with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes identity, heritage, and culture as foundational elements for future development, while also promoting research and innovation as essential pillars for community advancement.
The Chairman of the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space has announced the initiation of a national project aimed at documenting Omani astronomical heritage. This initiative seeks to collect and preserve traditional astronomical knowledge while showcasing the contributions of Omanis in this domain. He emphasized that the project goes beyond mere preservation; it serves as a bridge connecting the past with the present and future, addressing the urgent need to safeguard heritage as the number of its narrators and experts diminishes.
The symposium highlighted the significance of safeguarding this astronomical heritage in alignment with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes "preserving, documenting, and disseminating heritage on a global scale," thereby strengthening Oman’s regional and international standing. The necessity to showcase and document the research contributions of Omani scientists in this area was also underscored, as obscurity poses a significant challenge to this heritage.
The symposium featured three sessions that delved into various aspects of Omani astronomical heritage. The first session included two pivotal presentations centered on agricultural heritage. The first presentation, titled "Distribution of Aflaj Using Stars," examined the interplay between astronomy and water distribution methods in Oman, utilizing the positions of stars. The second presentation focused on "Omani Navigators’ Use of Zodiac Signs, Mansions, and Stars."
The second session focused on three aspects of maritime astronomical heritage. The first presentation, titled "Distribution of Aflaj Using al-Lamad," detailed the division of water in traditional Omani irrigation systems (Aflaj) through celestial patterns. The second presentation, "Stars, Fishing Seasons, and Sea Strikes as Defined by Omanis," highlighted the role of stars in determining optimal times for fishing and sailing. Additionally, the paper "Agricultural Astronomical Heritage: An Anthropological Study of the Astronomical Heritage of the Hobiot-speaking Communities in Dhofar Governorate, Sarfait Village" explored the connection between astronomy and agriculture in Sarfait village. Another presentation, "Astronomy and its Relationship with Weather and Climate in the Sultanate of Oman," was also included.
The third session addressed astronomical calculations and manuscripts, featuring a paper on "Astronomical Awareness Among Omanis: Sheikh Omar bin Masoud al-Manthri's Book and al-Hajri's Letter as a Model," alongside another titled "The Sidereal Year and the Calculation of the Cycle," which examined how Omanis utilized the stars to track seasons and time. The session concluded with a discussion on "Astronomy and Military Tactics among the Omanis."
The symposium wrapped up with several recommendations, emphasizing the need for a national initiative to document Omani astronomical heritage and to disseminate related research widely. There was also a suggestion to incorporate Omani astronomical heritage into school curricula to foster astronomical awareness among future generations and to enhance the Sultanate of Oman's standing in the global astronomical community.
