Beyond the stars: All about the Dubai Astronomy Group
Humans throughout history have been intrigued by the unknown. We constantly ask ourselves – what lies beyond our world? Astronomy has already answered many of those questions and put forth thousands more. Like other parts of the world, astronomy is big in Dubai, with the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) playing a massive role in its popularity. Join us for an in-depth look at the history and purpose of the Dubai Astronomy Group.
ALL ABOUT THE DUBAI ASTRONOMY GROUP
Founded in 2000, the Dubai Astronomy Group focuses on popularising astronomy and related fields across the Middle East. The group has become the field’s leading voice in the last two decades. They have provided specialists and consultancy services to government and large private-sector enterprises.
DAG employs various methods to encourage the study of astronomy. The list includes these.
- Outdoor astronomical observations
- Lectures, talks, exhibitions and conferences
- An in-house resource centre
- Social media promotion
- Dedicated observing locations
AIMS OF DUBAI ASTRONOMY GROUP
DAG has clearly outlined its objectives and continues pushing towards achieving them.
- Promote astronomy within and outside the UAE
- Nurture and support new emerging talents in the field
- Discover, market and create archives of Arab astronomical heritage
- Take part in local and international astronomical events
- Represent the country globally in astronomy activities
- Enhance learning and knowledge through activities and events
- Push new astronomical projects
- Champion astronomy on a global scale
DAG SERVICES
Here’s an overview of the services offered by DAG. To ensure the best experience, please book your slots via the official website in advance.
SCHOOL PROGRAMMES
DAG organises telescopic observation sessions, workshops, overnight camping trips, stargazing parties and planetarium visits. Interested individuals and schools can learn more about the prices via the official website.
ASTRO CINEMA
Al Thuraya Astronomy Center is where you can watch movies, series and documentaries on astronomy and other related sciences. It is one of the most popular activities in Mushrif Park.
PLANETARIUM SHOW
The multi-purpose theatre inside The Planetarium runs shows to educate attendants about astronomy. The media provides factual and in-depth knowledge about the incredible universe we are just a tiny part of.
ASTRO TOURISM
As the name suggests, DAG organises local and international tours designed to educate people about astronomy via outdoor observation, star parties and astrophotography. You can choose from Arabian Astronomy, Greek Mythological Astronomy & Ancient Civilizations and Astronomy in Ancient Civilizations and World Major Cultures for local tours.
With regard to international tours, there are three options: Oman, the USA and Iceland.
TRAINING PROGRAMMES
DAG offers dedicated training programs to help enhance your skills and field knowledge. Everything from basic introductory courses to advanced courses, including astrography, trekking and others, are available.
3D PRINTING
Dubai Astronomy Group also offers 3D printing services. With their cutting-edge material and technologies, you can print anything you desire.
DUBAI ASTRONOMY GROUP MEMBERSHIP
There are three different Dubai Astronomy Group Membership categories:
- Gold Membership – AED 300 per year
- Platinum Membership – AED 600 per year
- Diamond Membership – AED 1,200 per year
The main difference between membership categories is the number of crash courses and discounts on various products and services. Those signing up for a family membership (3 members or more) get a 20% discount.
Dubai Astronomy Group members enjoy the following benefits.
- A membership ID card
- 12-month free services, including telescope observation, virtual reality, Planetarium show, solar observation, Astro cinema, Xbox Mars Landing Game and more at the Al Thuraya Astronomy Center
- Free, discounted access to stargazing parties
- Become part of an exclusive WhatsApp group to receive updates about Dubai Astronomy Group events and other related news
- Discounts on crash courses and Astro tourism
- 10% off at DAG stores. Popular items include cameras, meteorites, telescopes, books, toys and more
- Admission to bi-monthly DAG forums
- Reserved seats at DAG events and activities
Presently, the group has over 8,000 subscribers that attend monthly observation sessions. Attending these events is a great way to meet people with similar interests. DAG facilitates these interactions through regular events and online forums. The main aim is to support members in their quest for knowledge.
DAG INITIATIVES
A Telescope for Every School
DAG launched an innovative initiative in 2006 to create interest in astronomy among the younger generation. They aim to gift a telescope to every school on earth!
The thought process is that when students observe the vastness of the skies with the donated telescope, they might become curious and develop an interest in Astronomy. You can become a part of this noble program and send donations via the official website.
Preserve The Night Sky
Another DAG initiative that deserves mention is ‘Preserve the Night Sky.’ This idea promotes that we should all shut off lights after 10:00 pm to observe the incredible starlight glowing arch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW CAN I BECOME A DAG MEMBER?
You can sign up for Dubai Astronomy Group membership via the website.
WHAT IS THE DUBAI ASTRONOMY GROUP CONTACT NUMBER?
The Dubai Astronomy Group’s contact number is +971-4-221-6603. You can also visit the official DAG website to learn about Dubai Astronomy Group events.
WHERE IS THE AL THURAYA ASTRONOMY CENTER LOCATED?
The Al Thuraya Astronomy Center is located in Mushrif Park.
CAN I BECOME A VOLUNTEER AT DAG?
The Dubai Astronomy Group team has hundreds of volunteers who offer services from event organising to scientific projects and research. Visit the official website and submit the form to become a volunteer.
That wraps up our guide to the Dubai Astronomy Group. There is a fascinating world out there that most of us aren’t aware of. Astronomy is a wonderful way to learn and increase our understanding of the world’s workings. It is definitely a subject worth exploring. How incredible would it be to go into the desert and stargaze at night? We’ll see you there!
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