Husna Bokhari

Every once in a while, I get asked this question: “How are you still so passionate about astronomy, even now?” People often wonder, because while many children love the stars, that interest usually fades as they grow older. Have I always aimed to be an astronomer? In Year 1 of primary school, I wrote down “doctor” as my ambition — the cliche answer of wanting to save people. But by the time I was 10, everything shifted. That’s when my real journey with astronomy began. From that moment onward, my ambition never wavered. I poured my heart and soul into the dream of becoming an astronomer, and I’ve been walking that path ever since.

During that year, I used to spend time just sky gazing without optical aid, simply curious about the countless stars above. One evening, I casually asked my brother if there were people who actually studied the stars. He replied, “Of course, they’re called astronomers, from the field of astronomy.” That answer sparked something in me. Even though the stars were so far away and mysterious, the idea that we could study them—and that doing so could bring us closer to Allah by appreciating His creation—truly captivated me.

My father noticed my growing interest, and unlike with most passing childhood hobbies, he took it seriously. Just as he nurtured each of his nine children in their own unique passions, he nurtured mine. He bought me books, clipped astronomy articles from newspapers, and even subscribed to the U.S. magazine Sky & Telescope so I could stay updated with the world of astronomy.

Looking back, I realize that my father’s diligence and vision shaped me in many ways. His support not only fueled my curiosity but also showed me how passion, when guided and nurtured, can grow into a lifelong journey.