Dazzling Celestial Phenomena to Light Up Saudi Skies This September
Saudi Arabia to Witness Rare Celestial Events This September, Including Total Lunar ‘Blood Moon’ Eclipse
RIYADH: Saudi skies will host a series of rare and spectacular celestial events this September, headlined by a total lunar eclipse — commonly known as a “blood moon” — visible across much of the Arab world.
According to the Jeddah Astronomy Society, the total lunar eclipse on Sept. 7 will be the only such event of the year for the region. The eclipse will be visible in Saudi Arabia, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Dr. Abouazza Elmhamdi, associate professor of physics and astronomy at King Saud University, described lunar eclipses as “one of the most predictable and visually fascinating phenomena.” He explained that they occur when “Earth aligns precisely between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow across the lunar surface.” Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to view with the naked eye.
Elmhamdi said that the Sept. 7 event will be particularly favorable for Saudi Arabia, as the full moon will already be within Earth’s shadow when it rises after sunset. The total eclipse will turn the moon copper-red due to sunlight scattering through Earth’s atmosphere, creating the much-anticipated “blood moon.”
This eclipse will also coincide with a supermoon, as the moon will be close to its perigee — its nearest point to Earth — appearing slightly larger and brighter than usual.
The AlUla Manara team is organizing a special viewing event, where astronomers will explain the stages and science of the eclipse. Attendees will also be able to use telescopes for closer observation.
In addition to the blood moon, September skies will feature several other astronomical highlights:
Sept. 4 & 20: The shadow of Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, will cross the planet’s disk — a rare sight for astronomy enthusiasts.
Sept. 19: The crescent moon will align in a striking triangle with Venus and Regulus, one of the brightest stars in the constellation Leo.
Sept. 21: A partial solar eclipse will occur, though it will not be visible in the Arab world. On the same day, Saturn will be at opposition, with Earth positioned between the planet and the sun.
Sept. 22: The autumnal equinox will occur, marking the official beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere. At this moment, day and night will be nearly equal across the globe.
Throughout the month, early risers will also see Venus and Jupiter shining brightly in the eastern sky before dawn.
“These events highlight the dynamic beauty of the universe and provide both scientists and the public an opportunity to connect with the wonders of space,” Elmhamdi said.
verified from sources:arabnews
