Ursa Major and Capricornus light up Northern Borders sky, draw stargazers

The night sky over Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region is illuminated this summer by the appearance of the Ursa Major and Capricornus constellations, creating a spectacle that attracts astronomy enthusiasts and underscores the historical importance of these star patterns in celestial navigation and orientation.

Zahi Al-Khalawi, president of the Northern Borders Space and Astronomy Association, explained that Ursa Major features the prominent 'Big Dipper' formation. The stars Dubhe and Merak are used to locate Polaris, the North Star, which sailors and travelers historically relied upon to determine true north. The constellation also contains several notable galaxies.

Al-Khalawi noted that Capricornus is one of the zodiac constellations, clearly visible on summer evenings, with Deneb Algedi as one of its brightest stars. Astronomers and travelers in the past used Capricornus to identify other constellations and for nighttime navigation.

He added that the Northern Borders region, known for its clear skies and low light pollution, is among the best locations for astronomical observation in the Kingdom. Al-Khalawi emphasized that observing constellations helps promote scientific culture and fosters greater interest in astronomy and space sciences.