Impact cratering studies have been for 50 years an integrated part of astrogeology. With improved understanding of the terrestrial impact cratering record, many disciplines of geosciences have been fertilized as well. This spectrum ranges from the effects of gigantic impacts onto the Hadean and Archean Earth till the continuing danger of impact catastrophes for current life on this planet. The recently discovered Jabal Waqf as Suwwan impact site in Jordan has introduced impact cratering research to this country, and it is hoped that it will spark similar investigations in the surrounding countries and other parts of the Arab world.

It is the hope that this First Arab Astrogeology Conference in Jordan may enhance impact research in the Arab World where already a number of impact structures are known, but generally still await detailed investigation. It is further hoped that this conference, from 9 to 11 November 2009 in Amman (Jordan) can foster collaborations between Arab geoscientists and life scientists and their colleagues from other parts of the world.

Eng. Khalil Konsul (Chairman)
Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences  

Geo. Bahjat Aladwan (Secretary)
Jordanian Geologists Association, Chairman of the Arab Geologists Union  

Prof. Dr. Elias Salameh
University of Jordan  

Dr. Hanna Sabat
Al Al-Bayt University, Astronomy and Space Sciences Institute 

Dr. Awni El-Khasawneh
Royal Jordanian Geographic Centre

Geo. Maria Khirfan
Royal Jordanian Geographic Centre

Mr. Ibrahim Diab
University of Jordan

Eng. Bassam Sunna'

- Submission of abstracts by 31 August 2009.

- Second and final announcement by 30 September 2009.

- Impact cratering as an astronomical and geological phenomenon.

- Structural features of impact structures.

- Economic mineral associations with impact structures.

- Effects of impacts on the atmosphere, landscape, life and land stability.

- General astrogeological sciences:
    - Geological features of the solar system.
    - Geology of solar terrestrial planets.
    - Geological history of Earth. 
    - Impact gardening.

The conference will be held from 9 to 11 November 2009 on the premises of the University of Jordan in Amman, the Capital City of Jordan. On 9 and 11 November technical sessions will be held at the University of Jordan, to be followed on 11 November 2009 by a free field trip to Jabal Waqf as Suwwan impact structure. An optional excursion to Petra and Wadi Rum can be organized from 12 to 14 November 2009.   

The University provides state-of-the-art conference facilities. Early November provides pleasant weather conditions in Amman.

For more details about Amman weather click here 

A number of invited speakers will enhance the conference with overview and topical presentations aiming at providing introductory information for this science and highlighting prominent research results of recent years.