Women in STEM: How Hassnaa Chennaoui is Preserving Morocco’s Celestial Heritage
Hasnaa Chennaoui Aoudjehane has made history as the first Moroccan woman to specialize in meteorite and planetary sciences. Her dedication to the field has driven efforts to introduce legislation aimed at safeguarding Morocco’s meteorites and preserving the country’s geological heritage.
Chennaoui’s fascination with meteorites began during her student years in Casablanca, where she often admired the night sky.
Inspired by astronomers like Ibn Rushd, she pursued her passion, eventually earning Morocco’s first PhD in meteorite sciences.
Continuing her academic journey, she studied astronomy at Pierre and Marie Curie University in France, where her interest in celestial bodies deepened.
Leaving Her Mark on the Cosmos
Currently a geology professor at Hassan II University in Casablanca, Chennaoui’s contributions to science have earned international recognition. In a symbolic honor, astronomer Michael Ory named an asteroid after her – a gesture that highlights her significant impact on the field.
Morocco’s deserts are known for their meteorite discoveries, often unearthed by local nomads aware of their financial worth.
However, due to a lack of regulations, many meteorites have been smuggled out of the country. To address this, Chennaoui partnered with the Moroccan Geological Survey to establish guidelines ensuring meteorite samples remain in Morocco for research and conservation.
Building a National Meteorite Archive
Since 2004, Chennaoui has curated an extensive archive documenting meteorite falls across Morocco.
This collection is featured in the exhibition “Les Météorites: Messagères du Ciel – Origines” (“The Meteorites: Messengers from the Sky”) at the Al-Tariq Foundation Museum in Casablanca, offering the public insight into Morocco’s cosmic treasures.
Nurturing Future Scientists
Chennaoui’s commitment extends beyond research. She has mentored numerous PhD students in fields related to meteorite impacts, craters, and planetary surfaces.
Despite facing challenges, such as limited research facilities and academic positions, she continues to support the growth of Morocco’s scientific community.
Through Chennaoui’s efforts, Morocco’s role in global meteorite research has expanded, and its meteorites now carry names that reflect their origins, celebrating the country’s contributions to planetary science.
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