Arabian Gulf’s biggest telescope inaugurated

The Emirates Mobile Observatory is also seeking to become part of the International Astronomical Union's network of robotic telescopes for conducting astronomical research.

Maj Gen Dr Ahmad Nasser Al Raissi, director general of Central Operations at Abu Dhabi Police, inaugurated the Emirates Mobile Observatory in the presence of a number of officers.

Work is currently underway to include the observatory in the International Astronomical Union’s network of robotic telescopes for conducting astronomical research.

Maj Gen Al Raissi described the initiative as another exceptional achievement under the belt of Abu Dhabi Police in particular and the UAE in general.

During the inauguration, a presentation was made on the development phases of the observatory from 2000 until 2014, and its telescope was put into operation.

The first of its kind and the biggest in the Gulf region, the telescope is placed on a self-rotating base to track celestial bodies with precision. It carries 350 pounds of optical equipment and is operated through astronomical programmes and computer networks.

The telescope will be used to observe astronomical phenomena and activities in collaboration with educational and scientific research authorities.