University of Nizwa Participates in NASA’s AERONET Science and Application Exchange 2024

The University of Nizwa’s Natural and Medical Sciences Research Center proudly represented Oman at the AERONET Science and Application Exchange 2024, held at the University of Maryland, USA, from September 17-19. This NASA-led conference brought together global researchers to celebrate 30 years of the AERONET program, which operates over 600 monitoring stations worldwide.

The University’s participation aligns with its 10-year collaboration with NASA (2022-2032) to study atmospheric aerosols in Oman. Dr. Baiju Dayanandan, the project’s Principal Investigator, presented findings on seasonal aerosol variations in Oman. His research, funded by NASA’s AERONET Program, highlighted that Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) peaks in summer, with the lowest values in winter, and revealed a significant correlation between AOD and water vapor in late fall.

This research involves collaboration with renowned institutions, including NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and the Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, among others. The project is co-led by Prof. Ahmed Al Harrasi, Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Nizwa, and supported by Prof. Ahmed Al Rawahi, University Chancellor.

In August 2024, NASA provided the University of Nizwa with advanced aerosol monitoring equipment, enhancing data collection capabilities and supporting the study’s continuation through 2032.

Participation in the AERONET Exchange highlights the University of Nizwa’s growing impact in climate research. Backed by strong leadership and cutting-edge tools, Oman is well-positioned to contribute to global climate science and address critical environmental challenges.