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المملكة: Jeddah Astronomy: The Shaaban crescent will be observed on Tuesday evening in a wonderful astronomical scene


Jeddah Astronomical Society Engineer Majid Abu Zahra, that The crescent of the month of Shaban is observed this evening, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, immediately after sunset, as it appears low towards the southwestern horizon at A beautiful astronomical scene provides an ideal opportunity for observing and photographing in various parts of the Arab world.

Abu Zahra stated that the moon had reached the stage of central conjunction on Sunday, Rajab 29, 1447 AH, corresponding to January 18, 2026, at 10:51 PM Mecca time, which is the astronomical moment when the moon moves from the west of the sun to its east, declaring the beginning of a new lunar month from an astronomical standpoint.

Abu Zahra pointed out that as the moon gradually moves away from the glare of sunlight, its visibility with the naked eye will become clearer compared to last night, pointing out that the height of the crescent will increase in the coming days as the illuminated part of its surface increases.

Earth Light Phenomenon

Abu Zahra added that observers may be able, during follow-up, to observe the phenomenon of “Earth Light,” which is the dim illumination that appears on the unlit part of the moon as a result of the reflection of sunlight from the planet. Earth.

The President of the Astronomical Society in Jeddah confirmed that the Moon’s continued movement towards the east in its orbit around the Earth leads to a change in its apparent position in the sky from one night to the next, making it a natural guide for determining the locations of stars and planets.

A Golden Opportunity

He explained that tonight is a golden opportunity for amateur astronomers to follow the Moon and explore dim celestial bodies away from the glare of the sky, and enjoy the sight of the crescent moon as a visual guide on a contemplative journey through space.

He called for Abu Zahra decided to invest this evening as an educational and entertaining opportunity for children, by raising their eyes to the sky and watching the Shaaban crescent with the naked eye on this cold winter night, so that it would be a moment of encounter with the moon, which in its calm light carries the tidings of the approaching month of the blessed month of Ramadan, and instils in their souls a love of contemplation and scientific curiosity, so that the observing experience turns into a beautiful memory that combines science, pleasure, and the spirit of discovery.

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