IAU to name asteroid after Jordanian astronomer Oudah

AMMAN — The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has made the decision to name an asteroid after Jordanian astronomer and engineer Mohammed Shawkat Oudah. 

The asteroid, previously known as RS 2001, will now be referred to as "Oudah" as a tribute to his significant contributions, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

This recognition comes in light of his efforts in establishing the UAE Meteor Monitoring Network and managing the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory (AKO) in the Abu Dhabi desert. 

The Abu Dhabi-based IAU serves as the higher global authority responsible for naming celestial bodies, comprising renowned astronomers and individuals holding doctoral degrees in astronomy or its equivalent.