August was a whirlwind month for the skies, featuring a meteor shower, a conjunction of Mars and Jupiter, and a supermoon, all within days of each other. But if you missed those natural wonders, don’t worry—September has some celestial delights lined up just for you (or should I say ‘up in the clouds’?). This month, UAE moon-gazers can look forward to a partial lunar eclipse and the Harvest Moon! Plus, there’s a chance for some rare comet sightings around the same time! So, whether you’re an astrophile or just eager to snap stunning pics of the eclipse, keep reading for all the incredible details you need to know!
Partial Lunar Eclipse
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 17, and Wednesday, September 18—because the moon is set to dazzle us! The UAE will get to experience a partial lunar eclipse as Earth positions itself between the sun and the moon, casting a shadow over part of the lunar surface. While it won’t completely obscure the moon, it’s still a spectacle you won’t want to miss. Be sure to grab your camera and capture the moment.
The Harvest Moon
Just a few days after the lunar eclipse, get ready for the Harvest Moon on Sunday, September 22! This moon is famous for rising around the same time each evening, historically providing extra light for farmers during harvest season—hence the name “Harvest Moon.” This year, it also coincides with the autumnal equinox, marking the official start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. Whether you’re a moon gazer or not, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some late-night moonlit strolls!
Will we get to see the brightest comet of 2024?
To add to the excitement for astrophiles this September, if all goes well, comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), also known as Atlas, could illuminate the skies on Friday, September 27. This comet has the potential to be the brightest of the year, creating a stunning trail across the night sky. However, there’s some uncertainty—some astronomers speculate that the comet might disintegrate before it becomes visible. So, while we’re hopeful for a spectacular sighting, we’ll have to wait and see how it unfolds!
Keep An Eye On The Skies
September is turning out to be a month brimming with cosmic wonders. Whether you’re gearing up to witness the lunar eclipse, admire the Harvest Moon, or hoping to catch a glimpse of the Atlas Comet, make sure to look up and soak in the beauty of the night sky in Dubai!
