Nizwa: Nizwa University, in collaboration with Oman’s Environment Authority and NASA, has launched a study titled “Initial Study of Column-Integrated Aerosol Optical Properties over Birkat Al Mouz, Sultanate of Oman.” The research aims to analyze aerosols over Birkat Al Moz, providing essential insights into dust dynamics and regional sources.
According to Oman News Agency, the study was conducted with the participation of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research, the Indian Institute of Technology in Bhubaneswar, and the Civil Aviation Authority. Professor Ahmed Suleiman Al Harrasi of Nizwa University noted that the research focused on seasonal dust patterns, aerosol radiative effects, and dust transport. This work is intended to support climate change assessments and environmental management.
Dr. Biju Daniel, a project supervisor, highlighted the use of data from a sun photometer on the Nizwa University campus. The study analyzed aerosol optical depth, Angstrom exponent, single-scattering albedo, and radiative effects. Concentration-Weighted Trajectory analysis was used to identify dust sources.
Dr. Mohammed bin Saif Al Kalbani from the Environment Authority reported that the highest dust concentrations occur in summer, with lower levels in winter. The study identified dust sources in the Horn of Africa, Arabian Peninsula, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. The research also found that dust has cooling effects on the Earth’s surface and warming effects in the atmosphere, affecting local and regional weather.
Al Kalbani emphasized the practical implications for Oman, including air quality management and environmental protection. The study supports Oman Vision 2040 and the strategic objectives for sustainable development, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Nizwa University, the Environment Authority, and NASA.