As August unfolds, stargazers in the UAE are in for a celestial treat. The coming days promise two spectacular astronomical events: the Da Vinci Glow and the Perseid meteor shower.
“Da Vinci Glow: A Ghostly Lunar Phenomenon”
Celestial observers in the UAE may soon witness the rare and captivating phenomenon known as the Da Vinci Glow. This ethereal glow appears around sunset when a thin crescent moon is on the horizon, but the outline of a full moon is still visible.
According to Sarath Raj, Project Director of the Amity University Dubai Satellite Ground Station and Programme Leader of Aerospace Engineering at Amity University Dubai, “The so-called ‘Da Vinci Glow’ is a captivating celestial phenomenon where a faint, ethereal light illuminates the unlit portion of the Moon. It is mostly visible when the moon is a thin crescent and appears typically a few days after the new Moon. The next new moon in the UAE is on August 4.”
The Da Vinci Glow, also referred to as “earthshine,” is caused by sunlight reflecting off Earth’s surface and back onto the Moon. This soft, ghostly illumination allows viewers to see the dark part of the moon, creating the illusion of a full moon outline. This effect, first observed by Leonardo da Vinci, gives the phenomenon its name.
“Perseids Meteor Shower: A Dazzling Display of Meteoric Beauty”
August is also a prime month for stargazing due to favorable weather and astronomical conditions. The Perseids meteor shower, which peaks around August 12-13, is one of the highlights. Hasan Al Hariri, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Astronomy Group, explained, “The Perseids are a natural phenomenon where meteors streak across the sky as the Earth passes through the debris trail left by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.”
The Perseids, known for their impressive meteor rates, offer viewers a chance to see up to 100 meteors per hour at their peak. The meteors are small fragments of rock and dust left behind by comets and asteroids, which burn up as they enter Earth’s atmosphere, creating visible streaks of light.
“The Perseids arise when the Earth passes through the debris of Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which was first discovered in 1862. The comet’s last encounter with the inner solar system occurred in 1992, leaving a dusty trail of debris that our planet passes through each summer,” Raj noted. “When this debris hits the Earth’s atmosphere, it burns and creates visible streaks in the sky. The Perseids are rich in fireballs, and the show should be really nice.”
“Tips for Stargazing: Making the Most of the Celestial Events”
To fully enjoy these celestial spectacles, experts recommend seeking out remote locations away from city lights. “All you really need is a clear sky and a secluded viewing spot away from the city lights. Your eyes may take five to 10 minutes to adjust to the dark,” Hariri advised. He emphasized the importance of comfort and patience, as meteor watching often requires waiting for the perfect moment.
For those planning to witness the Da Vinci Glow and Perseid meteor shower, it’s essential to have a clear view of the horizon and minimal light pollution. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or a casual skywatcher, these events offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with the wonders of the universe.
Stay tuned to local news for further updates on the best viewing times and locations. As August progresses, both the Da Vinci Glow and the Perseid meteor shower promise to light up the night skies, providing a memorable experience for all who venture out to observe them.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members