Mleiha National Park in Sharjah will provide a unique opportunity to witness celestial wonders, offering two unforgettable nights for stargazers, families, and nature enthusiasts, this month.
Visitors will be invited to gather at the park’s Panoramic Lounge to witness two captivating celestial displays: the total lunar eclipse on September 7, and Saturn at its brightest and closest on September 20.
Total lunar eclipse
On this special evening, witness the Moon gradually slip into Earth’s shadow, transforming into a deep, fiery red hue during the total eclipse. This dramatic effect occurs as sunlight filters through our planet's atmosphere; shorter blue wavelengths scatter away, leaving only the longer red rays to illuminate the lunar surface.
Against Mleiha's pristine desert backdrop, free from light pollution, this celestial spectacle promises an exceptionally vivid and awe-inspiring display of nature’s grandeur.
Saturn at its best
On September 20, seize the chance to see Saturn at its absolute brightest and closest for the year. The ringed planet reaches “Opposition,” perfectly aligned opposite the Sun from Earth. This prime positioning makes Saturn exceptionally luminous and reveals stunning detail through telescopes. Visitors can expect crystal-clear views of Saturn’s magnificent rings and, conditions permitting, its largest moon, Titan. It’s the best time to see the planet in extraordinary detail, right from Sharjah’s desert.
The perfect celestial canvas
Commenting on the upcoming events, Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager at Mleiha National Park & Strategic Projects, said: “At Mleiha, the desert offers darker skies than the city, and with our array of computerized high-resolution telescopes, visitors can observe celestial objects in exceptional detail and clarity.. We offer a safe, welcoming environment where families, astrophotographers, and astronomy enthusiasts can share truly magical nights under the stars, and these two events offer unparalleled opportunities to experience it.”
Both celestial events will fall on weekends, ideal for family outings, photography expeditions, or simply savoring a rare evening beneath Sharjah’s star-studded desert canopy. Guests will also have the opportunity of pairing the experience with a delectable dinner, creating a perfect blend of indulgence, cosmic discovery, and natural wonder.
For bookings and further information, visit discovershurooq.gov.ae or contact: +971 6 802 1111 or mleihamanagement@discovermleiha.ae
-TradeArabia News Service