Latest news with #KhadijahHasanAhmed
Gulf Insider
10-06-2025
- Science
- Gulf Insider
Strawberry Moon Graces UAE Skies Tomorrow: Last Chance Until 2043
Eager to witness a rare Strawberry Moon – the last full Moon of Spring 2025 – which won't appear this low in the sky again until 2043? Your wait ends tomorrow, June 11, as it has been confirmed that the celestial treat will be visible in the UAE. 'The Strawberry Moon will be visible in the UAE, with moonrise at approximately 7.32pm on June 11 and moonset at 5.55am on June 12,' Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, operations manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG), told Gulf News on Tuesday. The Strawberry Moon will be visible across the UAE, she confirmed. 'And the best part is that you don't need any special equipment to see it.' Residents can simply step outside and look toward the eastern horizon shortly after moonrise, which is at 7.32pm, as the Strawberry Moon will be visible to the naked eye under clear skies. The best views are from open areas like beaches, deserts, or high spots, but it can still be seen from the city if you have a clear view of the eastern horizon, explained Khadijah. 'Of course, using binoculars or telescopes would definitely enhance the view.' She pointed out that it is 'a beautiful, easy-to-watch celestial event that connects us with the universe because the Strawberry Moon is the last full Moon of Spring and one of the most visually striking, often appearing larger and more golden when it rises.' Despite its name, however, the Strawberry Moon will not look pink or red. It is usually yellow or orange due to atmospheric conditions when it is low on the horizon. The twist about this Full Strawberry Moon that will grace the night sky on June 11 is that it is accompanied by the rare phenomenon of a Great Lunar Standstill, which happens every 18.6 years. 'In the Northern Hemisphere, it will be the lowest Full Moon until 2043, staying unusually close to the horizon. Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, it will be the highest Full Moon until 2043,' as explained on astronomy app Star Walk 2, said Khadijah. 'This rare positioning is due to the major lunar standstill, which is a cycle that only happens every 18.6 years. It's like the Moon's version of a solstice.' So, it will be the lowest Full Moon in 18.6 years for the Northern Hemisphere, rising and setting at its most extreme south-easterly and south-westerly points. Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the opposite: they will see the highest Full Moon this month, and their lowest one will come in December, she explained. The Moon's orbit is tilted about 5.1° relative to the Earth's path around the Sun (the ecliptic), Khadijah pointed out. Because the Earth's axis is also tilted 23.4°, during a major standstill, these tilts combine, so the Moon can rise and set at its most extreme points on the horizon, farther north and farther south than usual. Hence, the Moon also appears higher or lower in the sky than normal.
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Time of India
Don't miss it: UAE's Strawberry Moon, last chance until 2043! When & where to see it
The Strawberry Moon will be visible in the UAE from approximately 7:32 PM on June 11 until 5:55 AM on June 12 (Representational Image) As the sun dips below the horizon on Tuesday, a rare and truly stunning sight awaits those gazing at the sky across the UAE: the Strawberry Moon, the last full Moon of Spring 2025. This particular moon event holds special meaning, confirmed to be visible throughout the Emirates, not least because it's the last time this specific phenomenon will appear so remarkably low in the sky until the year 2043. For anyone eager to witness nature's grand show, tomorrow, June 11, offers a chance not to be missed. The Lunar Arrival: Times and What to Expect The exact times for this heavenly display have been carefully set. Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG), told Gulf News on Tuesday, June 10, that "The Strawberry Moon will be visible in the UAE, with moonrise at approximately 7:32 PM on June 11 and moonset at 5:55 AM on June 12." This generous time frame, stretching from evening twilight into the early morning, gives plenty of opportunity for viewing. Importantly, Khadijah Hasan Ahmed also confirmed that the Strawberry Moon will indeed be visible everywhere in the UAE, easing any worries about where to see it. The best part, she stressed, is how easy it is to watch: "And the best part is that you don't need any special equipment to see it." Best Views: Where to Look Up For residents wanting the most impressive views of this lunar wonder, simplicity is key. You can simply step outside and look towards the eastern horizon soon after the moonrise at 7:32 PM. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo The Strawberry Moon is expected to be seen with just your eyes, assuming the skies are clear. Khadijah Hasan Ahmed suggested that the best places to watch are usually wide, open areas like peaceful beaches, the vastness of the desert, or elevated spots that offer a clear view. Even in the city, the Moon can still be seen if you have a clear line of sight to the eastern horizon. While looking with your bare eyes is a wonderful experience, she thoughtfully added, "Of course, using binoculars or telescopes would definitely enhance the view," promising an even more detailed look at the Moon's surface. This particular moon event, as highlighted by Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, is "a beautiful, easy-to-watch celestial event that connects us with the universe." She warmly described the Strawberry Moon as the final full moon of Spring and "one of the most visually striking, often appearing larger and more golden when it rises." It's important, however, to remember its name doesn't mean its color: despite its appealing name, the Strawberry Moon will not actually look pink or red. Its usual color, affected by air conditions when it's low on the horizon, is typically a warm yellow or a bright orange. Why until 2043: A Rare Lunar Standstill The true charm and compelling reason not to miss this Full Strawberry Moon on June 11 comes from its connection to a truly rare natural event: a Great Lunar Standstill. This significant alignment of the Moon happens only once every 18.6 years, making tomorrow's event an exceptionally rare pairing. Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, using information from the astronomy app Star Walk 2, explained the phenomenon's different effects in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres: "In the Northern Hemisphere, it will be the lowest Full Moon until 2043, staying unusually close to the horizon. Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, it will be the highest Full Moon until 2043." This precise and rare position is directly due to the major lunar standstill cycle. "It's like the Moon's version of a solstice," she clarified, offering an easy comparison for its unique path. To be clear, For those in the Northern Hemisphere, including the UAE, this particular Full Moon on June 11 will be the lowest seen in 18.6 years. It'll rise and set at its farthest points to the southeast and southwest. In the Southern Hemisphere, it's the opposite: they'll see their highest Full Moon this month, with their lowest coming in December. This happens because the Moon's orbit is tilted about 5.1 degrees compared to Earth's path. When this tilt combines with Earth's own 23.4-degree tilt during a major standstill, the Moon appears at its most extreme positions. This complex interplay means the June 11 Strawberry Moon isn't just a pretty sight; it's a rare cosmic event that won't appear this low again for almost two decades.
Gulf News
23-04-2025
- Science
- Gulf News
UAE residents urged to take Dark Sky Week pledge
Here is how you can show your support to prevent threat of light pollution Last updated: Dubai: It is International Dark Sky Week and UAE residents have been urged to show their support to prevent the growing threat of light pollution. The Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) has called on its members and the wider group of residents to 'show the world your support for dark skies and the protection of nighttime environments by linking your name to the cause.' This is possible by taking the pledge of the website of the International Dark Sky Week, a global movement to raise awareness about the growing threat of light pollution and to remind us of something we are all born with: the right to experience a natural night sky. 'For many, darkness is misunderstood or feared, but it's essential for our planet's health and well-being,' said Khadijah Hasan Ahmed, operations manager at DAG. 'From wildlife to human sleep cycles, dark skies play a vital role in life on Earth,' she pointed out. Hence, the Group has asked residents to join it this week to rediscover the night and learn how light pollution is impacting the world and what simple actions we can take to preserve it. The pledge reads: 'I pledge to protect the night by following the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting, using lights only when and where I need them, and learning more about the impacts of artificial light on wildlife, habitats, and my community.' 'We recommend everyone does what they can to help protect the night sky. Together, we can reclaim the stars for future generations,' the campaign says. How you can help: Use light only of needed Dim or switch off unnecessary outdoor lights. Use motion sensors and warmer colour lighting at home. Use warmer colours when possible Educate others and share what you learn. How light becomes harmful According to the World Economic Forum's March 2025 report, light pollution is rapidly increasing, with artificial lighting now affecting nearly 80% of the planet. This surge is linked to urbanisation and the widespread use of electric lighting. The consequences are far-reaching: wildlife, including birds, bats, and insects, experience disrupted behaviours and reproductive cycles. Humans are also affected, with studies indicating a correlation between exposure to artificial light at night and various health issues, such as sleep disorders and certain cancers. Moreover, light pollution contributes to energy wastage and hinders climate change research by obscuring the night sky. Experts advocate for immediate measures to reduce artificial light at night in urban areas and residential spaces to mitigate these adverse effects. Related Stories Dubai gold price surge: Will it cool off anytime soon? 2m read Free shuttle buses announced for Dubai AI Week 2025 2m read All the buzz around the new Netflix thriller Glass Dome 2m read Hit Show wins $12 million Dubai World Cup 4m read
