Perseid meteor shower to peak over Saudi skies on August 12-13

The skies over Saudi Arabia will witness the peak of the Perseid meteor shower on the nights of August 12 and 13, in one of the year's most prominent and captivating astronomical events. The spectacle is especially attractive to stargazers and astrophotographers, with the best viewing opportunities in areas far from light pollution and where weather conditions are favorable for observation.

Zahi Al-Khalwi, Chairman of the Space and Astronomy Society in the Northern Borders Region, told SPA that the Perseid meteor shower is among the most active meteor showers of the year. He noted that the Northern Borders Region is particularly suitable for observing the event due to its low levels of light pollution. Additionally, a site within the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve has been designated as a dark-sky location, further enhancing the quality of astronomical observation.

He added that August 12 will also see a total solar eclipse visible from the western part of the Arab world. Venus will reach its greatest eastern elongation on August 15, followed by its conjunction with the moon on August 16, and the full moon will occur on August 18.

Al-Khalwi noted that August continues to be rich in astronomical phenomena, as the star Suhail will appear on August 24, marking the start of its 53-day season. The month will conclude with a partial lunar eclipse on August 28, which will also be visible from the western Arab world.

He emphasized that August is one of the most eventful months of the year for astronomy, featuring a variety of phenomena that help promote scientific knowledge and astronomical awareness. He encouraged enthusiasts to observe according to scientific principles and to take advantage of natural sites with clear skies, urging the public to follow the society's announcements for observation schedules and related events.