Latest news with #DubaiAstronomyGroup
Khaleej Times
7 hours ago
- Climate
- Khaleej Times
UAE weather tomorrow: Summer to begin; fair to partly cloudy skies
The UAE will experience generally fair to partly cloudy skies on Saturday, June 21, marking the official start of summer 2025, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). On June 21, the summer solstice takes place in the UAE, according to the Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG). A summer solstice is "the moment when the sun reaches its highest and northernmost point in the sky", said Khadijah Al Hariri, Operations Manager at DAG. Humidity is expected to rise by night and into Sunday morning, increasing the likelihood of fog or mist forming over some coastal and inland areas. Temperatures are forecast to reach a high of 40°C and a low of 29°C in Abu Dhabi, 39°C and 31°C in Dubai, and 45°C and 33°C in Al Ain. Light to moderate winds, shifting from southwesterly to northwesterly, will blow at speeds ranging between 10 and 20 km/h, occasionally reaching up to 30 km/h. Sea conditions will be slight to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and slight in the Oman Sea. The summer solstice is set to start at 06.42 UAE time and will last for three months until the autumnal equinox around September 23. During this period, UAE residents are urged to take serious precautions to prioritise their health and safety. Click here for more tips on how to stay safe from the summer heat and avoid sun strokes.
Time Out Dubai
2 days ago
- Science
- Time Out Dubai
Where to see the Milky Way in the UAE this weekend
Calling all stargazers, here's a summertime treat that you don't want to miss. The Milky Way is now visible from the UAE, meaning there's no excuse not to catch a glimpse of the galaxy. Becoming clearer in the night sky from May all the way until October, the spectacle will be bright enough that you won't need a telescope to watch it either. If you like this: Stargazing in Dubai: Full line-up of astronomical events in 2025 Although you can spot the Milky Way with your own eyes, there's a high chance you'll never spot it in the city. For the best view, a spokesperson for the Dubai Astronomy Group said that areas have clear skies with low light pollution, and humidity offer the best conditions for viewing. And new moon phases also provide a better view. The best views can be seen away from the city lights in dark sky locations such as Al Quaa, Al Razeen or parts of the desert around Al Ain. Wondering where to head for an evening of gazing up at the stars? Check out some of our top picks below. Best stargazing spots in the UAE Al Quaa Milky Way Spot A quiet and open spot (away from night pollution) is always a good bet for stargazing. Around 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi towards Al Ain, is the Al Quaa Milky Way Spot. Dubai Astronomy Group will host a Milky Way observation event on Saturday June 21 in Al Quaa Desert, Abu Dhabi. Stargazers will be treated to an evening of astronomy, deep-sky observation and astrophotography. If you're planning a visit on your own, you'll need a 4×4 to get there and be adept at desert driving. It has its own location tag on Google Maps (23.604633,54.750256.) Free. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Abu Dhabi. Al Qudra Desert A regular spot for Dubai Astronomy's stargazing events, this desert can be found to the east of Dubai. You can also head here on your own accord and set up camp for a night under the stars. Shuweihat Island If you are interested in seeing a place that looks spectacular day or night, then Shuweihat Island is a must. Around a four-hour drive from Dubai, you'll find salt flats and serenity. A 4×4 car is recommended when visiting. Free. Shuwaihat island. Hatta Hajar mountain location Hatta, which is just an hour and a half away from Dubai, can be a good spot to see the night sky, but as the spot isn't as deep into the wilderness as some of the others, there may be some light. In other Dubai news Dubai announces 4-day work week and reduced hours Check if you're eligible Mark your calendar: Dubai's summer start date is almost here It falls on a later date this year Dubai Metro Blue Line: Here's where the 14 new stations will be located What to expect when the route arrives
What's On
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
A rare Milky Way sighting is taking place this weekend; here's how you can join
For all the star gazers and chasers out there, there's something special happening this weekend. Dubai Astronomy is hosting an exciting stargazing event on June 21 in Al Quaa, Abu Dhabi, to witness the Milky Way in the UAE in all it's force and beauty. As astronomy enthusiasts and first time celestial crawlers come together in the Al Quaa Desert under one of the darkest night skies in the UAE, our galaxy will reveal itself in incredible detail and clarity. This remote location offers some of the most optimal conditions for stargazing, views of deep-sky objects, planetary details and the galactic spiral of the Milky Way, more spectacular than anything you can spot in the urban skies. What's going down? Astronomy experts will be taking participants through a four-hour-long curated, complete program lasting from 10pm to 2am. You'll be able to learn essential astrophotography techniques in hands-on workshops, including the practical instruction and the specifics of camera settings and composition techniques. You'll also get a chance to practice your photography skills capturing images of star clusters, nebulae, and the Milky Way's core and engage in sky mapping sessions for ancient constellations, supplementing them with fascinating stories and mythology. The program will come together with time dedicated to simply observing Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons, and distant will be provided with everything they need for this experience, including high-quality telescopes and photography equipment. For those based in Dubai, the organisers are providing convenient transportation to be able to attend the event. Cheap, reliable bus transit is being organised, departing from Jebel Ali Metro Station. The comfortable three-hour journey also includes rest stops and will arrive perfectly on time for optimal conditions. Buses leave at 6.30pm and cost Dhs120 per person. How to join You can register at the Dubai Astronomy Group Instagram page to reserve your spot and transportation if you require. Make sure to hurry, as spots are limited and filling up fast. If you're taking the bus, make sure to arrive by 6.15pm latest to catch the bus. More stargazing written our stars As such, UAE residents are in for a treat this summer, as for the next few months, the Milky Way galaxy will be visible in the night sky. Also known as the Galactic River, the galaxy's main arm and core will be visible late at night, with the clearest and highest period for viewing being the months of July and August. As such, the galaxy is visible from until October, and offers a stunning celestial sight which is as beautiful as it is rare. To learn more about the most optimal viewing conditions, read here. @dubaiastronomy Images: Unsplash > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
10-06-2025
- Time Out Dubai
See a rare strawberry moon from Dubai this week: What is it? Why is it special?
Dubai stargazers are in for a treat this week as a rare strawberry moon will be visible in the skies. The June full moon will be the lowest full moon in more than 18 years for countries in the northern hemisphere, making it appear bigger than it actually is. 2025 is a major lunar standstill period, which means that the moon is at its most extreme movement across the sky and won't be this low again until 2043. It will be seen at its fullest on the evening of Wednesday June 11, rising around sunset and setting around sunset, and will be visible for a further two to three nights after that. And the best bit? You don't need any special equipment to see it. According to Dubai Astronomy Group, you just need to step outside and look up shortly after moon rise – around 7.30pm in Dubai – if you have a clear view of the horizon. Despite the name, the strawberry moon doesn't usually appear pink or red but can look golden or reddish when low on the horizon. Why is it called a strawberry moon? The fruity name originates from Native American tribes and is part of the traditional naming system for full moons to mark seasonal changes. Historically, the strawberry moon would signal the start of the wild strawberry harvest in North America. Best strawberry moon viewing spots in Dubai While the strawberry moon is visible with the naked eye, the best places to see the strawberry moon are from open areas like beaches, deserts or high spots. Dubai Astronomy Group will regularly host observation events for astronomical events. Al Barsha Pond Park (Credit: Supplied) This park is open until 11.30pm, meaning you'll be able to get in a few good viewing hours of the strawberry moon before the park closes. Filled with trees, manicured lawns and walking paths it's a nice place to take a stroll in the moonlight. Floodlights illuminate the space when the sun sets, but you'll still be able to get a good view of the night sky. Free. Open Sat-Wed 8am-11pm, Thu-Fri 8am-11.30pm. Al Qudra Lakes (Credit: Visit Dubai) If you have a 4×4 car, you can take a trip to Al Qudra Lakes for a moongazing session. Since this area is located away from high-rise buildings and roads, it makes for a great spot to see the sky. You can barbecue in allotted areas, but if you prefer fast food, then Last Exit Al Qudra, where you'll find food trucks, is a nine-minute drive away. Free. Open 24 hours a day. Hatta Credit: Getty Images Hatta does sometimes suffer from some light pollution, but the further into the Hajar mountains you venture, the better the views. Only less than a two-hour drive from the city of Dubai, there are also spots to camp overnight if you can brave the heat. Free. Hatta. Jebel Ali Beach Beach picnics are one of the many perks of living in a coastal city. When the sun sets on Thursday evening why not pack up a hamper with snacks and head to Jebel Ali Beach to watch the Moon? This beach is free to the public and there are car parking spaces (if you prefer to sit in your car and blast the A/C). Free. Open 24 hours a day. Kite Beach (Credit: Supplied) One of Dubai's most popular free beaches, Kite Beach is open at night, allowing you to take a walk and see the night sky. If a picnic isn't your thing, then you can visit one of the many beachside restaurants that stay open until midnight. Free. Open 24 hours a day. The Viewing Point If you fancy heading to a viewing platform, then The Viewing Point is a 70-metre walkway at Dubai Creek where you'll get a great view of the creek and Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. You won't be able to sit down for a picnic here but you'll be able to walk down to the harbour where there are plenty of benches and restaurants. Free. Open 24 hours. Dubai Creek Harbour. Making plans? Dubai's best outdoor restaurants, bars and clubs Visit these spots to cool off Dubai's newest restaurants to try The latest openings to tempt your taste buds 12 underrated Dubai restaurants and cafés (that are not tourist traps) Some of our favourite eateries that aren't always in the limelight
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.
