Muscat: The global skies are set to bear witness to two distinguished celestial events on Wednesday, September 18, 2024: a partial lunar eclipse and the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the giant moon.
Here is a comprehensive overview of what to expect:
Partial Lunar Eclipse
A lunar eclipse transpires when the shadow cast by the Earth obscures the sunlight reflecting off the moon. Lunar eclipses are classified into three categories: total, partial, and penumbral.
Timing: The penumbral eclipse commences at 4:41 AM, followed by the partial eclipse at 6:12 AM, reaching its zenith at 6:44 AM, and concludes at 7:15 AM, with the penumbral eclipse extending into 8:47 AM (all times in Oman local time).
Visibility: Locals in Oman will be unable to observe the lunar eclipse, as the moon will set prior to the commencement of the partial eclipse. The event will be visible across numerous regions worldwide, including Africa, Europe, the Americas, and various parts of Asia.
The Director of Astronomical Projects at the Oman Astronomical Society has clarified that residents of Oman will not have the opportunity to view the lunar eclipse, as the moon will set in the Muscat Governorate at 5:54 AM, well before the partial eclipse begins. He further elaborated that a lunar eclipse is a remarkable astronomical event that unfolds when the Earth's shadow intercepts the sunlight reflecting off the moon.
Super Moon Phenomenon:
A supermoon is characterized by the occurrence when the moon is at its full phase and positioned at the point in its orbit that is closest to the Earth. The elliptical nature of the moon's orbit results in varying distances between the moon and our planet. At its closest point (perigee), the moon appears significantly larger and more luminous than at its farthest point (apogee).
Timing: The spectacle of the supermoon will unfold after sunset, casting its eastern horizon as the ideal vantage point.
Visibility: The optimal moment for observing and capturing photographs of the supermoon is during sunset.
Details: The moon will exhibit a noticeable enlargement of approximately 15% and a brightness that is 30% more intense than usual. Its appearance may also be influenced by the reddish or orange hues, attributed to dust and other particles present in the Earth's atmosphere.
The Omani Astronomical Society is set to organize a public viewing event at its central premises in the city of Al Irfan, located within the Wilayat of Seeb. This event aims to explore the phenomenon of the giant moon, characterized by its unique size and exceptional luminosity, fostering an educational and interactive environment for all attendees.
