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The University of Jordan (UJ), in partnership with the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA), marked the successful completion of the first phase of the Cambridge-Amman Seminar Project on Astrophysical Research (CASPAR)—a pioneering joint initiative launched to advance astrophysical research and capacity building in Jordan.

CASPAR was established in January 2017 by Dr. Ala’a Azzam from UJ’s Department of Physics, alongside Dr. Nancy Brickhouse and Dr. Andrew Szentgyorgyi from the CfA. The project aimed to introduce and strengthen astrophysics research opportunities within Jordan through collaboration with leading U.S. scientists.

As part of the initiative, eight undergraduate students from UJ’s Physics Department were selected to participate in research activities guided by three professors from both institutions. The students engaged in foundational astrophysics projects, gaining critical research skills and exposure to international scientific standards.

The first phase of CASPAR culminated in a ceremonial visit by Dr. Andrew Szentgyorgyi to the University of Jordan in November 2017, where he took part in a closing ceremony that celebrated the group’s accomplishments and reaffirmed the value of international scientific collaboration.

“This project is a stepping stone for young Jordanian scientists who aspire to contribute to global space research,” said Dr. Azzam during the ceremony.

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