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Reflecting her strong commitment to enriching student learning through experiential education, Dr. Ala’a Azzam of the Department of Physics at the University of Jordan organized a memorable stargazing trip for undergraduate students and their families on June 29, 2015, during the holy month of Ramadan.

The trip took place at Qasr Al-Harraneh, a historic desert site east of Amman, renowned for its open horizons and dark skies—ideal conditions for astronomical observation. Dr. Azzam aimed to connect classroom concepts with real-world experience, providing students with a deeper appreciation of observational astronomy in a culturally meaningful setting.

Participants began the evening by sharing a traditional iftar meal, fostering a sense of community and family engagement. As darkness fell, the educational portion of the evening began with naked-eye observation of the night sky, where Dr. Azzam identified prominent stars and shared the stories and science behind well-known constellations.

The evening continued with telescope-assisted observation, using an 8-inch reflector telescope to view celestial bodies including the Moon, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. This hands-on experience allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge from their coursework in a practical setting.

To conclude the evening, participants had their photographs taken beneath the Milky Way, capturing both the beauty of the night sky and the spirit of scientific exploration.

This initiative exemplifies Dr. Azzam’s dedication to creating immersive learning opportunities that inspire curiosity and connect academic knowledge with the natural world. It also highlights the department's broader mission to foster a love of science both inside and outside the classroom.