MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA—A delegation of the Fatwa Committee of the State of Perlis, Malaysia visited the Astronomy Study Center at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (PASTRON UAD) on Friday (03/03). PASTRON UAD is a study center that focuses on the development of astronomy education and research. Operating since 2014, PASTRON UAD is a symbol of Muhammadiyah’s seriousness in developing the Islamic astronomy.
The head of PASTRON UAD, Yudhiakto Pramudya, served as the guide and explained activities of this Muhammadiyah astronomy institution. The PASTRON UAD conducts education, research, and community service. Some of the routine activities include measuring the direction of qibla, observing and studying celestial objects, and taking photos of outer space.
In addition, Yudi introduced types of telescopes and the importance of filters in observing the sun. He also showed the dome that can open the observation window so that the 17-inch telescope can clearly see celestial objects. The dome rotation is provided by a track placed at the base with the setup process carried out by PASTRON UAD staff in the control room.
After touring the PASTRON UAD located on the 10th floor of campus IV of the UAD, Dato’ Arif Perkasa Dr. Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin (Dato’ MAZA) expressed his admiration for Muhammadiyah. He believed that the PASTRON UAD is a continuation of the struggle of K.H. Ahmad Dahlan in promoting the integration of science and religion.
“I am amazed to see this. This shows the sincerity and expertise of Muhammadiyah in Islamic astronomy. This is part of Ahmad Dahlan’s legacy,” said Dato’ MAZA.
In addition, the entourage of the State of Perlis involves Deputy Mufti of Perlis Tajul Urus Bin Abdul Halim, CEO of MAIPs Mohd Nazim bin Haji Mohd Noor, Member of the Fatwa Committee of Perlis Azman Bin Mohd Noor, while Muhammadiyah was represented by Secretary of the Muhammadiyah Council for Tarjih and Tajdid Muhamad Rofiq Muzakkir, and other Muhammadiyah members.
After the visit, the delegation went to the auditorium of the Islamic Center of UAD to attend a meeting with the Muhammadiyah Council for Tarjih and Tajdid. In the meeting, they exchanged information about religious thought, fatwa, and the possibility of collaboration between the Mufti Committee of Perlis and the Muhammadiyah Council for Tarjih and Tajdid .
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