Details of the Moon and Mars conjunction phenomenon at dawn on Friday | Jeddah Astronomy
The skies of the Arab world are preparing to witness an exceptional astronomical event. Engineer Majid Abu Zahra, head of the Jeddah Astronomical Society, explained that astronomy enthusiasts are in for a spectacular sight: the conjunction of the Moon and Mars at dawn on Friday, May 15, 2026. This phenomenon is considered one of the most beautiful celestial events that can be clearly seen, as the crescent moon at the end of Dhu al-Qi'dah will adorn the eastern horizon alongside the red planet, in a natural masterpiece that can be easily observed with the naked eye before sunrise.
The historical context of conjunction phenomena in Arab astronomy
Astronomical phenomena have always held great interest in Arab and Islamic history. The ancient Arabs excelled at observing the movement of planets and stars, using this knowledge to determine the beginnings of the lunar months and agricultural seasons, as well as for land and sea navigation. Observing phenomena such as planetary conjunctions was not merely a matter of scientific curiosity, but rather an essential part of the scientific culture that laid the foundation for modern astronomy. Today, this event is a continuation of that rich legacy, as observatories and astronomical societies, such as the Jeddah Astronomical Society, continue their role in reviving this passion and spreading astronomical awareness among members of society.
Details of the conjunction of the Moon and Mars at dawn on Friday
According to a report issued by the Jeddah Astronomical Society, all eyes will turn towards the eastern horizon before dawn, as the moon rises in a very thin, waning crescent phase, heralding the approaching end of the lunar month and the beginning of the period for sighting the new moon of Dhu al-Hijjah. At this time, Mars will appear near the moon as a reddish point of light, adding a captivating dimension to the scene. The visual delight will not be limited to this pairing; observers will also be able to see Saturn higher in the eastern sky, providing astrophotography enthusiasts with a golden opportunity to capture three celestial objects in a single frame.
Scientific significance and regional impact of the event
The significance of these events extends far beyond their aesthetic appeal. Locally and regionally, such phenomena contribute to the growth of astronomical tourism in Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world, where enthusiasts and professionals gather in open, desert areas, far from the light pollution of cities, to enjoy observing these events. Internationally, the monitoring and documentation of these conjunctions enriches global astronomical databases and provides valuable educational material for students and researchers, enabling them to understand the mechanics of celestial bodies more precisely. This ongoing observation serves as a testament to the magnificence and precision of the cosmic order.
Tips for observing the "Earthlight" phenomenon and the movement of celestial bodies
Engineer Abu Zahra pointed out a unique phenomenon accompanying this event known as "Earthlight," where the unlit portion of the moon's disk appears faintly illuminated by sunlight reflected from Earth. For the best viewing experience, it is recommended to choose locations with a clear eastern horizon, away from buildings and trees. The ideal viewing time begins about two hours before sunrise. Although the phenomenon does not require telescopes, using binoculars will reveal stunning details.
It is worth noting that the phenomenon of conjunction is an apparent alignment on a single line of sight from our perspective on Earth, while millions of kilometers in deep space actually separate the Moon and Mars. Since the Moon moves eastward in front of the stars and planets at a rate of approximately 13 degrees daily, its appearance and conjunctions constantly change from night to night, making the sky a perpetually ever-changing stage for nature and cosmology enthusiasts.
