Rizwana Khan Ghori, a Malayali settled in Sharjah, entered the Limca Book of Records for collecting Disney plush toys worth over Rs 57 lakh.
Rizwana with her collection
Rizwana Khan Ghori, a Malayali woman settled in Sharjah, has entered the Limca Book of Records for her staggering collection of Disney plush toys worth over Rs 57 lakh. Born to Abdul Razackhan Ghori and Mrs Razackhan Ghori, Rizwana began collecting Disney plush toys at 12; now she has 1,100 of them which are kept in a rented two-room flat!
She expresses her intention of trying for a Guinness record, during an email interaction. “I will do it, but for now, I’m just enjoying the moment, and slowly adding to my collection.”
It all started after her mother told her the story of Cinderella and she craved for a doll of Cinderella. Soon, she was the proud owner of one. “I have never borrowed money from my family, friends or relatives for these toys. I used to save up a lot from my pocket money to buy them.”
She gives a lot of credit to her father, who never discouraged her from indulging in her passion and in fact rented a two-bed apartment to house the toys. Her mother, however, was more disapproving of her hobby.
How did she manage to lay her hands on rare ones like the limited edition Molly Cunningham? Her father’s brother is in the US, she says, and he helped procure some of them. Of late, she has also been shopping online. Rizwana remembers that she spent the first five years of her life in Jawahar Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram. “Though I grew up in the UAE, I feel connected to my motherland and am proud of my roots. My father comes from capital city while mother from the cultural capital of Kerala.”
Mother of a three-year-old, Rizwana says she will never grow out of this hobby and will keep collecting all her life. But at the same time, she imagines that one day she would auction the plush toys and give the proceeds to some charity.
She signs off by quoting Walt Disney who famously said that if you can dream it, you can do it.
source: http://www.deccanchronicle.com / Deccan Chronicle / Home> Lifestyle / by T Sudheesh, Deccan Chronicle / March 20th, 2016
US based charity organisation ,Indian Muslim Relief and Charities (IMRC), in a noble initiative, have started Challenger Civil Services Academy in Moinabad area of Hyderabad in Telangana state of India.
The Academy was inaugurated in Hyderabad on Sunday, May 8th by Director General of Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB), AK Khan.
The main motive of starting the academy is to motivate more students to take up civil services exams and provide quality coaching at affordable cost to the local students who earlier had to rush to rush to Delhi for coaching. The academy also provides hostel facility for students coming from different parts of state.
“People aren’t aware of civil services exam in Hyderabad in comparison to northern cities likes Delhi and Rajasthan where more candidates apply for the coveted UPSC exam. With proper guidance, aspirants from Hyderabad can surely crack the exam,” said Chief Guest, DG ACB, AK Khan.
While appreciating the IMRC move of opening the Academy, Khan said, “Deserving candidates who are deprived of opportunities will get chance in the academy to prepare for the bright future. The academy will support and also encourage aspirants to be successful and the academy also aspires the society to get good civil servants.”
The academy will offer top tier civil services courses like UPSC and state PSC besides providing a launching pad for CLAT, Banking, Railways, SSC, CPF, IB exams and other state and central competitive exams.
A residential campus with hostel, internet facility and library is also made available for hostellers.
The Academy has three levels of courses. There are hundred seats in first two levels, where students of intermediate and undergraduate students can take admission. Student’s right after their 10th class exams can start preparing for civil services without hampering their regular class work. In third level there are only sixty seats.
“Our three tier integrated course provides the holistic approach to inculcate among our aspirants the natural inclination to succeed in competitive exams. As of now the registration of students to appear in entrance exam is in progress. We are getting a lot of applications,” said Mukesh Sahay, Director, CCSA.
The academy has made it mandatory to appear in the test for admission at Challenger Civil Services Academy. Qualifying criteria will be only based on merit acquired in the admission test. The academy will provide 50% fee wavier to the students who gets 90% and above marks in the entrance test whereas the students with 70-89% marks will get 30% fee waiver.
5% marks will be added on the merit marks of SC ST/OBC and Minorities. The entrance test is scheduled for Sunday, May 22nd.
source: http://www.beyondheadlines.in / Beyond Headlines / Home> Education / by BeyondHeadlines News Desk / May 22nd, 2016
The distinguished honorees pose for a group photo during the mega event in Dubai.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava, an event dedicated to honouring the outstanding contributions and work of Karnataka-origin business icons in the Gulf region, concluded on a grand note.
The mega event marked a significant milestone as it paid tribute to a total of 21 exemplary ‘Most Influential Business individuals’.
These distinguished honorees, recognised as ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna,’ received their recognition from the esteemed Chief Guest, Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum, a Member of the Royal Family of Dubai and the Chairman of MBM Group. The heart of this momentous event was a coffee table book launch, capturing their achievements and dedication to both the Gulf nations and their home state of Karnataka.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava was a resounding success, drawing more than 1000 attendees from all walks of life and capturing the essence of Karnataka’s rich culture, heritage, and business prowess. The event served as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable success stories of these individuals who have made a significant impact on the economic and social fabric of both the Gulf countries and Karnataka.
The highlight of the event was the felicitation of the 21 distinguished individuals who were honoured as ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna Awards.’ These business icons, representing the most influential and powerful leaders from a wide array of industries, who have achieved tremendous success but have also contributed significantly to the welfare of their communities and the betterment of Karnataka.
The list of notable icons featured in the coffee table book and ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna 2023’ awardees included Dr. Thumbay Moideen, emerging as the number one contributor in Medical Education and Healthcare sector of UAE. Notably he’s the only businessman from Karnataka who holds the distinction of being world’s only businessman from Karnataka to own a private medical University outside of India, the leader in healthcare and medical education in UAE.
Other awardees included: Hidayatullah Abbas, Founder & Chairman, Hidayath Group; Mohammed Meeran, Chairman of EMCO International and Electric Way; James Mendonca, Founder & Chairman, Reliable Group of Companies; Nissar Ahmed, Chairman, Nash Engineering; Ramchandra Hegde, Managing Director, Spraytek Coatings; Joseph Mathias, Managing Director, Merit Freight Systems; Vasudeva Bhat Puthige, Owner, Venus Group of Restaurants; Mohammed Naveed Magundi, Intignis Naveed Company; Mansoor Ahmed, Chairman, Saara Group; M. Syed Khalil, Founder Chairman, K&K Enterprises; Michael D’Souza, Managing Director, Ivory Grand Real Estate; Ibrahim Gadiyar, Managing Director – Gadiyar Group of Companies and Director Projects – Pantheon Development Group; Dr. B.K Yousuf, Executive Chairman, Air Chateau International; Dr. Sathish P Chandra, CEO, Global Tech Park; Zafrullah Khan Mandya Chairman and Founder, ZGC Global / Zain Group of Hotels; Devid Frank Fernandes, Chancellor General MEA, Peace Ambassador & Chief of Mission (UAE) ICDRHRP IGO, Martin Aranha, Managing Director, Globelink West Star Shipping, John Sunil, Group Chief Executive Officer, Burjeel Holdings, Mohammed Ashif, Co-president and CEO, Expertise contracting and Ravi Shetty, Managing Director, Advanced Technical Services. Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to excellence served as an inspiration to all attendees.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava was not just about awards and accolades; it was a true celebration of Karnataka’s vibrant culture and artistic heritage. The event featured a captivating blend of cultural performances, musical concerts, and comedy acts that left the audience enthralled. Traditional dances such as Pili Vesha were showcased, transporting the audience to the heart of Karnataka.
Hidayathullah Abbas, Founder and Chairman, Hidayath Group told Gulf Today that he is honoured to have been recognised at this Gulfkarnatakotsava platform, alongside so many accomplished individuals who share a connection with Karnataka and have made remarkable contributions in the Gulf.
“The Gulf Karnataka Ratna Awards event celebrates our shared heritage and showcases the incredible achievements that have taken shape from this cultural bridge.”
“The launch of the coffee table book emphasizes the stories, journeys, and legacies of Karnataka’s business icons in the Gulf. It serves as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of our community and the lasting impact we’ve made across industries and borders. I hope that these stories inspire future generations to continue the legacy of excellence and compassion that our community represents.” Abbas added.
The musical segment of the event witnessed renowned artists and musicians such as, Santosh Venky, Guru Kiran and noted playback singer Chaitra HG, was a testament to the harmonious coexistence of cultures and the bond between Karnataka and the Gulf countries.
Comedy, often regarded as the universal language of laughter, also played a pivotal role in the event. Comedian Kannada actors Prakash Thuminad and Deepak Rai Panaje had the audience in splits, providing moments of pure joy and amusement amidst the grandeur of the evening.
The Gulf Karnatakotsava was a celebration of success and a testament to the strong ties between Karnataka and the Gulf countries. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of individuals who have bridged the gap between these two regions, fostering cultural exchange, economic growth, and mutual understanding. As the curtains closed on the Gulf Karnatakotsava, it left behind a legacy of inspiration and pride. The ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna’ awardees serve as an encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder that Karnataka’s heritage and success stories continue to shine on the global stage.
source: http://www.gulftoday.ae / Gulf Today / Home> Business / by Inayat-Ur-Rahman, Business Editor / September 11th, 2023
Hidayathullah Abbas, a distinguished Non-Resident Indian (NRI) businessman hailing from Uchila, Udupi, was bestowed with the prestigious ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna’ award at the Gulf Karnatakotsava event held in Dubai on Sunday, September 10, 2023. The event’s Chief Guest, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Royal Family of Dubai and Chairman of MBM Group, graced the occasion.
Hidayathullah Abbas embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the 1970s, initially engaging in hardware trading. Over time, he diversified into the supply of stainless steel materials and gradually emerged as a market leader in trading, processing, project supplies, manufacturing, and services related to architectural and industrial products in stainless steel and allied metals.
As the founding chairman of the Hidayath Group, he played a pivotal role in its remarkable growth. In just four decades, the group achieved global recognition in the stainless steel industry. His visionary leadership, hard work, unwavering commitment, risk-taking acumen, and dedication were instrumental in propelling the group to success. Hidayathullah Abbas’s strategic focus and understanding consistently aligned with the group’s objectives. His emphasis on continuous technological advancement, strategic acquisitions, and well-planned expansions into new markets enabled the group to make substantial inroads into the architectural and industrial sectors.
In addition to his remarkable business achievements, Hidayath is also a prominent philanthropist, actively supporting religious, educational, and social institutions. His contributions extend beyond the business realm, reflecting his commitment to the betterment of society.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / September 11th, 2023
In a remarkable celebration of exemplary contributions and achievements, Syed Khalil ur Rahman, a distinguished NRI businessman and community leader from Bhatkal, was bestowed with the prestigious ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna’ award. This honor was conferred upon him during the Gulf Karnatakotsava event held in Dubai on Sunday, September 10, 2023. The Chief Guest for this momentous occasion was His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Royal Family of Dubai and Chairman of MBM Group.
Syed Khalil, affectionately known as ‘C A Khalil’ among the general public, hails from the Nawayat community of Bhatkal. His exceptional journey to prominence and distinction has not only brought pride to the Nawayat community but also to Kannadigas and Indians at large. Khalil is renowned for his remarkable achievements and dedication to international trade, social service, and the education of underprivileged children.
Having ventured to the Gulf in 1978, Khalil’s unwavering faith and dedication to the Galadari family propelled the Galadari Company to unparalleled success over three decades. Presently, he serves as the Founder Chairman of K&K Enterprises General Trading Company in Sharjah. Khalil also holds positions in numerous educational and social service organizations in Karnataka and beyond.
His passionate commitment extends to addressing the issue of youth unemployment. In his public addresses, he emphasizes the need for medical education and the establishment of a reputable hospital in the region. Khalil has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious ‘Rajyostava Award’ from the Karnataka government, an honorary doctorate from Aldersgate College, Ireland, and countless felicitations that showcase his outstanding accomplishments and exemplary character.
Syed Khalil stands as one of the town’s first chartered accountants, renowned for his financial expertise. He is also a respected leader in social service, religious, and educational circles. His leadership roles have included the presidency of prominent organizations such as Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen and Rabita Society. Khalil is an advocate for girls’ education and has played a pivotal role in establishing extensive educational institutions.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / September 11th, 2023
In a testament to extraordinary achievements and contributions, Dr. Thumbay Moideen was bestowed with the ‘Gulf Karnataka Ratna’ Award, emphasizing his leadership in healthcare delivery and medical education. Notably, Dr. Moideen holds the distinction of being the only Indian in the world to own and operate the biggest private medical university outside India. This recognition reflects his dedication to enhancing healthcare and nurturing the future of medical professionals. Alongside him, 20 other distinguished businessmen were also honored for their remarkable contributions at the festivities of the Gulf Karnatakotsava- the United Arab Emirates’ most prominent platform for celebrating business excellence and recognizing the remarkable contributions of Karnataka’s businessmen in the Gulf region.
The award was presented by the esteemed Chief Guest, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Maktoum Juma Al Maktoum, a Member of the Royal Family of Dubai and the Chairman of MBM Group to Dr. Thumbay Moideen.
In 1997, Dr. Thumbay Moideen founded the Thumbay Group in 1997, which has grown from a private medical college to a prominent conglomerate in medical education, healthcare delivery research, diagnostics, pharmacies, and hospitality sectors. With over 110 locations across seven emirates, the group partners with over 70 institutions.
Speaking about receiving the award, Dr. Thumbay Moideen, founder president, Thumbay Group stated, “I am grateful to God Almighty, the support of the Rulers and the government, and my own sincere team. This recognition will inspire me to do more in driving positive change.”
Beyond business excellence, Dr. Moideen has been an ardent advocate for the importance of healthcare accessibility and quality education globally. His philanthropic efforts have reached communities in need, providing medical services and educational opportunities to those who would otherwise lack access.
The Gulf Karnataka Ratna Award is a testament to Dr. Thumbay Moideen’s commitment to improving the well-being of people and his dedication to nurturing the future leaders of the medical field.
source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / September 11th, 2023
Global NRI Official presenting a memento to Hafiz Abdullah Abdul Mateen Usmani, presented by Azmat Ali Emran and Syed Abdul Hadi / SG Photo by Abdul Rahman M Baig
Jeddah:
Hafiz Abdullah Abdul Mateen Usmani, winner of the annual Qur’an memorization contest organized by Jamiat Khairokum Li Tahfizul Qur’an Kareem (Khairokum Qur’an Memorization Society) for Makkah region, was recently felicitated by the Global NRIs Youth Club here.
Abdullah Usmani won the first prize from among 1,000 participants out of which 13 candidates were bracketed in the category of those securing between 95 and 99 marks. In the ensuing round involving the 13 finalists of the competition, he was declared the winner.
Abdullah Usmani was presented a car by Jeddah Governor Prince Mishaal Bin Majed.
Jamia Al Khairiya Li Tahfiz-ul-Qur’an Kareem is a semi government institution and center established for the students to memorize and recite the Holy Qur’an. It holds the competition every year to encourage students and other participants.
Hafiz Abdullah Usmani is an Indian and belongs to the city of Hyderabad in Telangana state.
Syed Abdul Hadi, vice president of Global NRIs Youth Club, presented a Mishla’h (an adornment cloak wore by men) to Hafiz Abdullah Usmani as a token of appreciation. It was followed by a memento presented by Azmat Ali Emran, president of the club. Bouquets were presented to the contest winner by Fysal Ali, Farhan Baig and Syed Khaja Viqaruddin.
Speaking to Saudi Gazette, Hafiz Abdullah Usmani said: “It took me four years to memorize the Holy Qur’an. I was 11 years old when I started the memorization.”
He is also the alumnus of IISJ from the batch of 2017. Initially he was admitted to Muaz Bin Jabal School where he memorized about one/sixth of the Qur’an. Later he got enrolled in Dar Ul Furqan School from where he completed his memorization of the Holy Qur’an while learning Tajweed. He completed the memorization of the Qur’an four years back. It was last year when the Masjid Al-Aziziyah officials advised him to appear for the Qur’an memorization contest.
Hafiz Abdullah Usmani took the opportunity and appeared from Masjid Al-Aziziyah under the supervision of Sheikh Hamza Rayyan, imam and khateeb of the mosque.
Abdullah Usmani continued with his worldly pursuits along with his Qur’an memorization and took an open school examination from 6th to 8th standard from IISJ. He became a regular student of IISJ from 9th standard after completing his Qur’an memorization.
Initially, he started memorizing of Holy Qur’an on the instructions of his mother. Later after getting admitted in Muaz Bin Jabal School he gained interest in memorizing and was very much motivated by seeing his peers doing so.
While memorizing the Qur’an, he got a chance to meet Sheikh Ayman Rushdi Suwaid, and learned Tajweed from him. He is known to be the Sheikh Ul Tajweed in Jeddah. In his early days of memorizing Qur’an, he used to listen to the Qirat of Sheikh Abdurrehman Al-Sudais and learned the ayats (verses) of the Qur’an that made him memorize the Qur’an faster.
Talking about his future plans, Abdullah Usmani said he would like to learn more Arabic, Islamic history and Qur’an. He said he was interested in pursuing advance accounting courses and build his career. He also has plans to lead Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan in any of the mosques of Jeddah.
Listening to the recitation of Sheikh Meshary Alafasy, Sheikh Mohammed Ayub and Sheikh Al-Sudais helped him learn the correct pronunciation and also helped him in the memorization process.
Speaking to Saudi Gazette, the award winner’s father, Abdul Mateen Usmani, said: “I would first thank and express my gratitude to Almighty Allah for the honor bestowed on my son.”
In this context, he said, efforts of Jamia Tahfiz-ul-Quran was exceptional. “This prize is more than a hundred billion dollar for me. I have not even dreamt that my son Abdullah will be winning the first prize.”
He said all his children initially received their early education having British curriculum. “Me and my wife decided that we will invest money on good education for our children. All my children were enrolled in Al-Waha International School for their primary education. It was my wife’s plan that we will encourage Abdullah to be a Hafiz. So after completing 5th standard, we removed Abdullah from the school and admitted him in the institute for Qur’an memorization. I was a little reluctant but my wife played a major role in making my son Hafiz.
“I advise all unmarried as well as married people not to waste or kill their time by watching movies and TV serials and spoil their future but instead focus on their education both for the deen (religion) and duniya (world). Even the Prophet (peace be upon him) said that one should give priority to the Seerah of anbiya (prophets).”
He said his wife started attending religious classes with other women in our neighborhood soon after she landed in Jeddah. She sacrificed her sleeping hours during daytime to attend these classes.
“It’s the parents responsibility to mold their children as they want. One can lay the right foundation from the word go,” he said.
Speaking to Saudi Gazette, Azmat Ali Emran, president of Global NRIs Youth Club said: “It’s an honor for our club to be the first to felicitate Hafiz Abdullah Abdul Mateen Usmani.”
Syed Abdul Hadi, vice president, said: “Abdullah made the Indians and specially the people of Hyderabad very proud by winning this award. I would like to thank Allah the Almighty and also congratulate his parents on behalf of Global NRIs Youth Club.”
source: http://www.saudigazette.com.sa / Saudi Gazette / Home / by Abdul Rahiman M Baig, Saudi Gazette / Headline edited / September 18th, 2018
Nida Anjum Chelat, a 21-year-old rider from Kerala’s Malappuram, became the first Indian to complete the gruelling Equestrian World Endurance Championship for juniors and young riders in Castelsagrat, France on Saturday.
Nida, riding atop Epsilonn Salou, accomplished four laps totaling 120 kilometers within a span of seven hours and 29 minutes.
The goal of the championship is to cover the track without any harm coming to the horse.
Nida demonstrated remarkable skill by successfully finishing all four stages, securing the 23rd position in the initial stage (28.6 kilometers), 26th in the second stage (29.2 kilometers), 24th in the third stage (33.8 kilometers), and an impressive 21st place in the final stage (28.6 kilometers). Throughout the competition, Nida maintained a commendable average speed of 16.7 kilometers per hour.
In this championship, 70 competitors representing 25 different countries participated, with 33 of them unable to finish the race.
The UAE claimed both the individual gold and silver medals, while Bahrain and France emerged as the victorious teams in their respective categories.
“To qualify for the World Endurance Championship, a rider and their horse must complete a 120km distance at least twice within a two-year period. Nida has surpassed this requirement by completing the 120 km distance four times with two different combinations,” said a statement on Sunday.
“Nida has achieved the three-star rider status, becoming the first Indian woman to do so by successfully completing the 120km distance ride more than once,” the statement added.
“I am proud to be the first Indian to have achieved the feat and would try to bring more laurels for the country,” said Nida.
Nida whose parents hail from Kerala’s northern Malappuram district and reside in Dubai, gained entry into World Championships by winning the Gold Sword at the Abu Dhabi Endurance Championship. She is being coached by renowned horse trainer and rider Ali Al Muhairi.
source: http://www.maktoobmedia.com / Maktoob / Home> India> Latest> South India> Sports / by Maktoob Staff / September 04th, 2023
‘Nine women in the Darjeeling Express kitchen made for a powerful visual’, the Kolkata-born British chef and restaurateur tells My Kolkata.
Simone Ashley and Asma Khan at the Darjeeling Express kitchen. (Right) the thali the actress was served @asmakhanlondon/Instagram
Nine women in the Darjeeling Express kitchen made for a powerful visual when actress Simone Ashley visited the London restaurant, owned by Asma Khan, on August 31.
Ashley, known for her portrayal of Kate Sharma in Netflix’s women-centric hit series Bridgerton, expressed her desire to connect with the all-female kitchen team.
Asma Khan, Kolkata-born British chef and restaurateur, shared her experience with My Kolkata from London, saying, “Simone met the girls with so much affection. They were thrilled to meet her. She’s very sweet, very humble. She also left a generous tip. Recognising and appreciating the women who nourish us holds significance for those of Southeast Asian heritage. Regardless of one’s origins, it’s an integral part of our culture.”
Asma’s mission is to embrace diversity in the hospitality industry
Asma has gained recognition for her unwavering commitment to empowering immigrant women, who form the heart of her kitchen brigade at Darjeeling Express. She articulated her mission to embrace diversity in the hospitality industry in a recent piece for British Vogue , where she wrote: “I have made it my mission to hire individuals from all walks of life, and of varying ages and abilities.”
Simone, who is of Tamil descent, arrived at the restaurant with the film crew of her latest project, including the producer and director. Asma said, “My connection with Simone came through our mutual friend, Charithra Chandran, who plays her half-sister in Bridgerton. We had discussed the possibility of Simone visiting the restaurant before. However, this time, the reservation was arranged by Christine, the wife of David Gelb, the director of Chef’s Table and a personal friend. She inquired about the availability and made the booking.”
‘Bridgerton’ star Simone Ashley is of Tamil descent @simoneashley/Instagram
“She had our thali at Darjeeling Express and was particularly thrilled about the puri (luchi), because we prepare them fresh for the thali. She watched our girls making it, and I’ve heard she’s a very good cook herself,” added Asma, who was a guest judge on a recent season of Padma Lakshmi’s Top Chef. In fact, the episode helped “demystify the thali” and is one of the reasons why the Sunday thali at the London restaurant is “doing so well” , according to Asma.
In recent times, Darjeeling Express has welcomed several notable personalities, including Malala Yousafzai , whom Asma describes as someone “who embodies the invincible spirit of women from South Asia”, Michael Buble , Spotify’s CEO Daniel Ek, and Paul Rudd as well as Schitt’s Creek creator Dan Levy, among others.
source: http://www.telegraphindia.com / The Telegraph Online / Home> Food> Star Chefs / by Karo Christine Kumar / September 02nd, 2023
Dr. Hashima Hasan tells AMT about her dream of working for NASA and her extraordinary role in launching the largest, most expensive space telescope in history.
A young girl stands in awe with her family in their yard, as their heads tilt back to watch the Russian Sputnik satellite pass through the clear morning sky in Hazratganj, India, in 1957.
“I still remember watching it and saying, ‘Wow, I’d like to do that,’” said Dr. Hashima Hasan. “That was an inspirational moment.”
Over half a century later, Dr. Hashima is now one of NASA’s leading scientists and has helped develop the device that is currently enthralling the world, by relaying the first quality images of billions of years of the universe.
The James Webb Space Telescope is being used to focus on the first light in the assembly of galaxies in the early universe, the birth of stars and protoplanetary systems, as well as planets.
James Webb Space Telescope
“I am personally delighted to see the hard work of the thousands of talented individuals across the nation, Europe and Canada rewarded by the success of the mission as evidenced by the flawless launch, commissioning and the stunning images,” says Hasan. “My colleagues and I are eagerly awaiting the scientific discoveries which are yet to come.”
From the images captured, which were released at a live event by NASA on July 12, scientists will be able to make discoveries about the life cycle of stars, galaxies, and planets and use that information to understand the ever-expanding universe. Hasan was part of the committee that identified candidate objects to be imaged to demonstrate that the powerful new instruments were ready for science.
“Although I didn’t know which images we would use for the demonstration, I was overwhelmed by the depth and details of the images,” said Hasan.
Hubble Space Telescope
Hasan is an expert when it comes to optics, which are used to control the telescope instruments and keep the mission on track. She was actually hired by NASA in 1985 to write simulation optics for the Webb’s predecessor, the Hubble Space Telescope, and played a critical role in fixing the flawed mirror that resulted in it relaying blurry images.
“I was appointed as the Telescope Scientist at the Space Telescope Science Institute and my job was not only to analyze the error but to keep the telescope ‘in the best focus’ while we were trying to figure out how to fix it,” said Hasan.
A few years later in 1989, Hasan was put on the project, at the time called the next-generation space telescope. This project was renamed in 2002 to what is now known as the James Webb Space Telescope, after the former NASA chief who headed the space agency from 1961 to 1968. In her role as the Deputy Program Scientist for the $10 billion telescope, Hasan and her team are responsible for ensuring the instrument stays on mission.
The Webb telescope will play a huge role in advancing understanding of the origins of the universe. The telescope took 30 days to travel almost a million miles away from Earth and will remain to capture infrared light from stars that formed 15 billion years ago.
Carina Nebula
“Until now, we have not been able to see the first stars and the first galaxies forming, so this is the key knowledge that we are planning to get from this telescope,” said Hasan. “We can even look closer to Earth in our own galaxy and we can see stars being born within our own galaxy. We can also see our planets more clearly and get more information on them. We can also see how the elements which form life.”
The James Webb telescope had a number of false starts through its decades of development due to a myriad of issues. Its first planned launch in 2007 was delayed by over a decade but its 2018 launch was canceled due to technical difficulties. As the Covid-19 pandemic hit it was rescheduled two different times. Finally, on Dec. 25, 2021, the telescope successfully launched from Kourou in French Guiana.
As the Webb joins the Hubble telescope it is expected they will work together in capturing images of celestial objects. However, the Webb surpasses its predecessor in its technological abilities. The Hubble telescope does not have the capability to capture infrared light in the same way and the Webb will orbit the sun rather than the Earth as the Hubble does.
Hasan says scientists have already lined up a menu of observations with Webb for the coming year and will soon submit proposals for which celestial mystery they will begin to uncover next.
“What excites me the most is the discovery of the unexpected and unknown,” said Hasan.
source: http://www.medium.com / Medium.com / Home / source: American Muslim Today / by Maya Gayler / July 15th, 2022
