Summary
Skywatchers across the Arab world are in for a rare treat on Sunday evening as the International Astronomical Centre prepares to livestream a total lunar eclipse from the Al Khattm Astronomical Observatory. The four-hour live broadcast will offer a front-row seat to this visually captivating cosmic event, which promises to be a mesmerizing blend of science and spirituality.
Preparations for the Total Lunar Eclipse
The International Astronomical Centre has confirmed that the total lunar eclipse will be visible in varying degrees across the Arab region. Engineer Mohammed Shawkat Odah, Director of the International Astronomical Centre, stated that the moon will rise above the eastern skies before the eclipse begins, while those in central areas will see it already underway. In the western Arab world, the Moon will appear above the horizon during the latter stages of the phenomenon.
According to a WAM report, the timings and phases of the eclipse are as follows:
- 7:28pm – Moon enters the penumbra
- 8:27pm – Partial eclipse begins
- 9:31pm – Total eclipse starts
- 10:12pm – Peak of the eclipse
- 10:53pm – End of total eclipse
- 11:57pm – End of partial eclipse
- 12:55am (Monday) – End of entire event
Visibility and Atmospheric Conditions
Odah emphasized that the moon will be clearly visible to the naked eye from 8:15pm to 12:15am, especially during totality. The color and brightness of the moon during an eclipse are indicators of atmospheric purity. Increased pollution or volcanic activity can darken the Moon’s hue significantly. He cited the total lunar eclipse of December 12, 1992, when the moon nearly vanished from view due to the lingering effects of the Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1991.
The Eclipse Prayer
In a spiritual reflection of the event, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat in Abu Dhabi has called on the public to perform the Eclipse Prayer on Sunday evening. This aligns with Islamic tradition, following the example of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), who performed special prayers during cosmic events.
The UAE Council for Fatwa stated that the prayer is recommended for all adult Muslims, regardless of whether the eclipse is partial or total. Whether you plan to tune in online or gaze skyward from your backyard, Sunday’s eclipse promises to be a mesmerizing blend of science and spirituality.
Global Visibility
A report by the Saudi Press Agency states that a total lunar eclipse will be visible to the naked eye across Saudi Arabia, other Arab nations, much of Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe and Africa. Majed Abu Zahra, Director of the Jeddah Astronomy Society, stated that the eclipse will last approximately five hours and 27 minutes in total.
The totality phase, the most visually striking part of the event, will last for 82 minutes, making it one of the longest total lunar eclipses since 2018. With perfect timing and clear visibility expected across most of the UAE, it’s an ideal moment to pause and reflect on the wonders of the universe.
Conclusion
Sunday’s total lunar eclipse promises to be a rare and awe-inspiring spectacle for skywatchers across the Arab world. The International Astronomical Centre’s livestream will offer a front-row seat to this cosmic event, which will showcase the beauty and complexity of our celestial surroundings. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply looking to appreciate the wonders of nature, Sunday’s eclipse is an opportunity not to be missed.