Moroccan Astronomer Blazes a Trail in Astrophysics
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From a childhood spent dreaming of rockets amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kelaat sraghna, Morocco, to becoming the nation’s first female astronomer, Meryem guennoun’s journey is one of unwavering determination and groundbreaking achievement. Her story resonates with anyone who’s ever dared to chase a seemingly impossible dream.
Guennoun’s passion for astronomy ignited early. “I was fascinated by the stars and astronauts,” she recalls. “I dreamed of visiting space,seeing the sun up close,the stars… This world made me dream so much.”
Her academic path wasn’t without its hurdles. After earning a science degree, illness temporarily derailed her plans for a master’s degree. Though, with the support of a freind who submitted her request, she was unexpectedly accepted into a master’s program in astrophysics at the Faculty of Sciences of Semlalia.”I had no knowledge on the subject but my motivation won out,” she explains. “This is exactly what I wanted to do!”
Overcoming Obstacles: A Woman in a Man’s World
Guennoun’s journey to becoming a leading astrophysicist wasn’t easy. she faced meaningful societal barriers. “I suffered from society’s gaze,” she admits. “During my studies,when I tried to carry a telescope,I was told: “it’s too heavy for a girl”. When I was having difficulties, I heard phrases like “this is not a field for women,” and it was exactly these kinds of remarks that gave me the drive to succeed and persevere!”
Despite these challenges, Guennoun persevered, earning her doctorate and becoming an associate researcher at the Oukaïmeden Observatory. Her expertise lies in meteor observation, orbit analysis, and identifying their parent bodies. She even developed a program to pinpoint the origin of shooting stars, a program she proudly describes as “the most robust method in the world currently.”
Her dedication was recognized on November 27,2024,when she received the prestigious L’Oréal-UNESCO Young Talent prize for Women in Science,alongside four other North African researchers. This award underscores her significant contributions to the field.
Inspiring Future Generations
Beyond her research, Guennoun is a passionate advocate for women in science. She chairs the association of Amateur Astronomers of Marrakech and serves on the African Network of women in Astronomy (AfNWA), working tirelessly to change perceptions and encourage more women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her story serves as a powerful testament to the importance of perseverance, the strength of dreams, and the transformative power of education.
Her initial contact, a message sent from high above Tarfaya, Morocco: “I’m sorry, I can’t answer you, I’m above Tarfaya. I will contact you onc on the ground,” perfectly encapsulates her dynamic life and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Meryem Guennoun’s journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration, not just for women in Morocco, but for women and girls around the world who aspire to reach for the stars.
Moroccan Astronomer Defies Stereotypes, Inspires Next Generation
Meryem, a rising star in the world of astronomy, is challenging conventional wisdom about women in science. she actively combats the misconception that science is a field solely for men, dedicating a significant portion of her time to promoting STEM careers among young people, particularly girls. “In common belief, this is far too cerebral and intellectual a field for a woman,” she says. “And precisely, I am campaigning to prove the opposite. I devote a significant part of my time to awareness-raising activities to make science attractive and to give young people, especially girls, the desire to embark on scientific careers.”
Meryem’s talents extend beyond the cosmos. In 2017, she showcased her musical abilities, winning the Mawahib almazar competition and releasing her debut single, “Neighbors,” a song infused with Afro-bian rhythms, produced by renowned artist Ahmed Soultan. Music has been a lifelong passion, and she plans to return to singing soon.
While many might dream of working for NASA, Meryem’s aspirations are different. She finds NASA “too commercial,” expressing a preference for the European Space Agency (ESA) or the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) in South Africa. “It’s closer, already!” she explains, emphasizing her desire to remain near her family. For this young astronomer, advancing scientific research in Morocco is paramount. “I would like to make a living doing research! And next to it, continue to make music. That would just be awesome!”
Meryem’s story serves as an inspiring example for young women across the globe, demonstrating that passion and talent can flourish in multiple fields, breaking down barriers and defying expectations.
Moroccan Astronomer Shatters Glass Ceilings in Astrophysics
Meryem guennoun’s inspiring trajectory as Morocco’s pioneering female astronomer highlights teh importance of perseverance, mentorship, and breaking down barriers in the field of astrophysics.
Dr. Meryem Guennoun recently sat down with Sarah El-Amin, Senior Editor at world-today-news.com, to discuss her groundbreaking work and the importance of inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
From Childhood Dreams to Breaking Barriers
Sarah El-Amin: Dr. guennoun, your journey is truly inspiring. You started dreaming about space as a child in Kelaat Sraghna. could you tell us about your early fascination with the cosmos?
Dr. Meryem Guennoun: It was almost magical. I was captivated by the vastness of space, the twinkling stars, and the idea of astronauts exploring the unkown. I read everything I could find about space, watched documentaries, and even pretended to pilot rockets in the fields near my home.
Sarah El-amin:
You’ve mentioned facing societal obstacles as a woman pursuing astrophysics. How did you overcome those challenges?
Dr. Meryem Guennoun: Society often has preconceived notions about what women “should” be doing. I encountered remarks like “astronomy is too difficult for a woman” or “a telescope is too heavy for a girl.” But those comments only fueled my determination.
I focused on my passion and let my work speak for itself.
The Power of Mentorship and a Strong advocate
Sarah El-Amin: You also faced a health setback during your early academic career, which could have easily derailed your dreams.
Dr. Meryem Guennoun:
It was a very difficult time. However, a dear friend intervened and submitted my submission for a master’s program in astrophysics without my knowledge. I was terrified but ultimately accepted.
Sarah El-Amin: What a powerful example of believing in someone’s potential, and that a little nudge can make a world of difference.
Dr. Meryem Guennoun: Absolutely. Having someone who believed in me, even when I doubted myself, was invaluable.
Sarah El-amin:
Your research focuses on meteor observation,orbit analysis,and identifying parent bodies. Could you tell us more about this captivating area of astrophysics?
Dr.Meryem Guennoun:
It’s like detective work on a cosmic scale!
I analyze the trajectories and compositions of meteors to trace them back to their origins, whether asteroids in the asteroid belt or comets from the outer solar system.
My team has even developed a program to determine the origins of shooting stars with remarkable accuracy – something I’m very proud of!
Inspiring the Next Generation
Sarah El-Amin:
You’ve received numerous accolades, including the prestigious L’Oréal-UNESCO Young talent prize for Women in Science.
How critically important is it for you to use your platform to encourage young women to pursue STEM fields?
Dr. Meryem Guennoun: It’s crucial.
I want girls to see themselves reflected in scientists and engineers.
I lead workshops and mentor young people, especially girls, to show them that science is not just for boys,
and that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
