E-Paper
Sign In
Fri, Nov 22, 2024 | Jumada al-Awwal 20, 1446 | DXB
0°C
UAE: Skies to shine with shooting stars; how to watch heavenly show
The meteor shower is expected to peak between August 12 and 13
A major celestial event is all set to brighten UAE skies. The 2022 Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak on the nights of August 12 and 13 in the region.
According to the Dubai Astronomy Group, Perseid meteor shower is one of the highlights of many “meteor hunters’ calendars due to its high hourly rate and bright meteors”. It is caused by the Earth slamming into the debris left behind by comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle in July and August every year.
“It is called the Perseids because the meteors seem to originate from the constellation of Perseus,” the astronomy group explained.
On August 11, the last supermoon of 2022 was visible in the early morning sky.
The supermoon is a term used to describe the point at which the moon’s orbit gets the closest to earth. It results in a “slightly larger than usual” size of the lunar disk.
“The full ‘Sturgeon Moon’ happens to be the final supermoon of 2022,” according to the astronomy group.
How to watch
Dubai Astronomy Group CEO Hasan Al Hariri said people don’t need any special equipment or skills to view a meteor shower. All that is needed is a clear sky and a secluded viewing spot away from the city lights.
The best time to photograph the supermoon is when it rises. “It is advised that people should go to a high point or find a clear area for the best view of the supermoon,” said Al Hariri.
The group is also hosting a special paid event on August 12 at the top of the highest peak in the UAE, the Jebel Jais.
ALSO READ:
A Staff Reporter
Got an interesting story to tell in the UAE? We want to hear all about it. Write to the nation's best reporting team, as we cover the emirates like no one else.
Sign Up For Breaking News Alerts
Be in the know. Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.
Next Story