Indian Muslim student discovers two new asteroids

NEW DELHI, India (MNTV)— An Indian Muslim undergraduate student has achieved rare international recognition in space science after identifying two previously unknown asteroids as part of a global astronomical research program supported by the United States space agency.

Ariyan Zishan Ahmed, a first-semester Bachelor of Technology student in computer science and engineering at the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya, successfully identified two new Main Belt asteroids during an official research mission under the International Astronomical Research Collaboration. The discoveries have been formally acknowledged by NASA, a milestone considered exceptional for a student at such an early stage of higher education.

The newly identified objects, designated 2024 VE8 and 2024 VC23, belong to the Main Asteroid Belt — a vast region of rocky bodies orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter. Scientists say systematic tracking of such objects is critical for understanding the early formation of the solar system and monitoring near-Earth space environments.

Ahmed’s work involved analyzing observational data generated by the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS), a wide-field astronomical observatory operated by the University of Hawaii in collaboration with NASA. 

Using advanced data-analysis techniques, he identified orbital patterns consistent with previously unrecorded asteroids and submitted his findings through the collaboration’s verification process.

The International Astronomical Research Collaboration brings together students, researchers, and institutions worldwide, allowing early-career scientists to participate directly in frontline space research using professional-grade data. Confirmed discoveries are reviewed and logged through internationally recognized astronomical databases.

Originally from Assam in northeastern India, Ahmed carried out the research alongside his regular undergraduate studies, highlighting the expanding access to global scientific collaboration beyond traditional research hubs. Educators say such achievements demonstrate how open astronomical datasets and international partnerships are reshaping who can contribute to space science.

Researchers note that discoveries from the Main Belt play a key role in refining models of planetary evolution and improving long-term tracking of small celestial bodies. While most Main Belt asteroids pose no threat to Earth, cataloging them enhances overall planetary defense and scientific understanding.

Ahmed’s achievement has drawn attention within academic circles as an example of how students from emerging regions can make meaningful contributions to advanced scientific fields when provided access to global research platforms and data-driven tools.