المملكة: Jeddah Astronomy: The Arab world is on a date with the first giant moon in 2026 on Saturday evening
Head The Moonis larger and brighter than usual as a result of its relative proximity to the Earth, with a full moon with approximately 99.6 percent illumination.
Abu Zahra explained that the term “The supermoon” is called the full moon that occurs when the moon is close to the closest point in its orbit around the Earth, known astronomically as the “lunar perigee.” The moon is usually classified as giant if the distance between it and the Earth is less than its average, indicating that astronomical calculations indicate that the moon will be approximately 362,312 kilometers from the Earth tonight, which places it within the range of relatively giant moons.
He added that the full moon occurs when the moon is at an angle of approximately 180 degrees from the sun, explaining that the moment of full moon will occur on Saturday at 01:02 pm Mecca time. Al-Mukarramah (10:02 GMT). Although the moment of actual fullness will take a short time, the moon will appear completely full and almost round throughout the hours of the night.
The President of the Astronomical Society in Jeddah indicated that the moon will rise from the eastern horizon simultaneously with sunset, and may initially appear in a warm orange color as a result of the scattering of blue rays in the atmosphere due to dust and suspended particles, before it gradually turns to its familiar silvery white color as it rises in the sky.
Watching the giant moon
He pointed out that this giant full moon will coincide with a visual conjunction with the planet Jupiter on the same night, as the planet will appear relatively close to the moon after sunset, stressing that this conjunction does not mean a real proximity between the two objects in space, but rather it is an apparent angular convergence on the sky, allowing observers to see the giant moon and the planet Jupiter together in an attractive astronomical scene, which adds more beauty to the sky and makes the night suitable for amateurs. Observing and astronomical photography, especially using small binoculars.
Abu Zahra explained that the giant moon will appear about 11 percent larger and about 27 percent brighter compared to the moon when it is at lunar apogee, that is, the farthest point in its orbit around the Earth, while the difference will be less clear when compared to the regular moon, and most people may not notice it except when comparing the captured images.
He confirmed that the moon The giant does not cause any unnatural effects on the planet Earth, indicating that its most prominent natural effects are limited to the occurrence of perigee tides, as a result of the alignment of the sun, the Earth, and the moon on almost one line, which leads to a greater rise in tides and a deeper drop in the islands compared to the usual rates, denying the existence of any proven scientific relationship between giant moons and the occurrence of earthquakes or weather disasters.
Regarding astronomical observation, he pointed out that the best times to observe the moon’s terrain, such as craters and mountains, are before the full moon or Afterwards, long shadows help to highlight fine details. However, the rising of the supermoon remains a unique opportunity for photography, especially when taken near buildings or natural landmarks, as the effect of what is known as the “moon illusion” increases, making it appear larger and more present.
The President of the Jeddah Astronomical Society concluded his speech by stressing that the supermoon will light up the sky on Saturday night, presenting astronomy enthusiasts with a wonderful natural event that will be repeated several times during the year, without any risks, and giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy With a breathtaking heavenly scene.
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