Saudi Space Agency releases guide to major astronomical events through 2030

The Saudi Space Agency has published an introductory guide outlining major astronomical events and phenomena expected to be visible in the Kingdom’s skies from 2026 to 2030. The initiative aims to raise awareness of space and astronomy, providing accessible scientific content to help the public and enthusiasts learn about celestial events, their timing, and scientific significance.

The guide features 62 astronomical events over five years, including solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, planetary conjunctions and oppositions, as well as equinoxes and solstices. Each event is explained in simple terms to enhance understanding and encourage observation of astronomical phenomena.

The guide details nine events in 2026, twelve in 2027, fourteen in 2028, fifteen in 2029, and twelve in 2030.

Among the highlights are the total solar eclipse expected on August 2, 2027, a total lunar eclipse on December 31, 2028, the rare close approach of asteroid Apophis on April 13, 2029, and an annular solar eclipse on June 1, 2030, which will be partially visible from Saudi Arabia, followed by a partial lunar eclipse about two weeks later.

The total solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, is considered one of the most significant astronomical events covered by the guide. Parts of Saudi Arabia will witness the path of totality, marking a rare occurrence more than 75 years after the last total solar eclipse seen in the Kingdom.

During the peak of the eclipse, the moon will completely cover the sun’s disk in areas along the path of totality, turning daylight into temporary darkness and revealing the sun’s corona. Other regions in the Kingdom will experience a partial eclipse, with the degree of coverage varying by location.

In some locations, totality will last up to six minutes, making it one of the most anticipated astronomical spectacles and a unique scientific and educational opportunity for the public and enthusiasts to observe a rare phenomenon, learn about the stages of an eclipse, and deepen interest in space and astronomy.

Professor Zaki Al-Mustafa, an expert at the Saudi Space Agency, said: “The total solar eclipse is an important opportunity to promote awareness of astronomical phenomena and provide a unique scientific and educational experience for the public and those interested in space sciences.” He added that such events help simplify concepts related to the movement of celestial bodies and foster greater interest in astronomy and the observation of cosmic phenomena.

He noted that the significance of the eclipse goes beyond observation, offering a chance to understand its stages and scientific nature, as well as the variation in visibility depending on location. He stressed the importance of following safety guidelines when viewing a solar eclipse, warning against looking directly at the sun and urging the use of approved protective eyewear.

The guide also highlights the exceptional close approach of asteroid Apophis to Earth on April 13, 2029, an event attracting global scientific attention. The asteroid will pass at an altitude of about 32,000 kilometers above Earth—closer than some geostationary satellites. Its passage will be safe and pose no threat to Earth, but the rare proximity offers scientists a unique opportunity to study the asteroid and observe how Earth’s gravity affects its orbit, rotation, and physical properties.

The Saudi Space Agency explained that the guide serves as a simple reference to help the public and enthusiasts identify the timing and nature of key astronomical events and follow them safely and scientifically, thus enriching astronomical culture and knowledge of space sciences.

The release of the guide is part of the Saudi Space Agency’s ongoing efforts to promote knowledge and awareness of space and astronomy, and to enhance specialized educational content. This includes the “Space Knowledge Portal,” which provides accessible information on space sciences for students, researchers, enthusiasts, and the wider community.