Dubai, UAE – Stargazers in Dubai are in for a celestial treat as the Flower Moon graces the night sky on May 22. Known for its exceptional brightness, the Flower Moon can be observed without the need for telescopes or binoculars, offering a spectacular sight for all residents of the UAE.
Optimal Viewing and Photography Tips
According to Hasan Al Hariri, CEO of the Dubai Astronomy Group, the best time to capture this lunar event in photographs is during moonrise. “It is advised that people should go to a high point or find an unobstructed area for the best view of the Flower Moon,” Al Hariri recommended.
The Flower Moon, also referred to as the Planting Moon, Milk Moon, or Hare Moon, has its roots in Native American and Colonial American traditions. “Each full moon was given a name reflecting the season and natural cycles,” explained Sarath Raj, Project Director of the Amity Dubai Satellite Ground Station and AmiSat at Amity University Dubai. “May, being a time of renewal and growth with flowers blooming in many parts of the world, led to the full moon in May being named the ‘Flower Moon’.”
The Science Behind the Full Moon
The full moon phase occurs when the moon is positioned on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun, with its fully illuminated side facing Earth. This alignment makes the moon appear exceptionally bright and visible throughout the night. The Flower Moon will rise around sunset and set around sunrise, providing an extended viewing period.
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On the evenings of May 22 and 23, the Flower Moon will be especially captivating in the constellation Leo. Reaching a maximum altitude of 29 degrees above the horizon and shining brightly with a magnitude of -10.37, it will be visible until it sets around 2 am the following morning.
Additional Celestial Events in May
In addition to the Flower Moon, May also featured the Eta Aquariid meteor shower, known for its fast and bright meteors. While the shower peaked around May 5 and 6, skywatchers can still catch occasional glimpses until May 27. “This shower, a leftover from Halley’s Comet, offered around 100 meteors per hour at its peak during the pre-dawn hours,” Raj noted.
As the Flower Moon illuminates the night sky, residents of Dubai are encouraged to step outside and enjoy this natural wonder. Whether through photography or simple observation, the Flower Moon promises a breathtaking experience for all.
For more information and updates on astronomical events, residents can follow the Dubai Astronomy Group’s announcements and recommendations.
