As 2025 draws to a close, skywatchers in the UAE can expect a stunning lineup of celestial events, including three consecutive supermoons and three major meteor showers.
Supermoons Set to Dazzle
A supermoon happens when the full moon coincides with its closest orbit to Earth, making it look noticeably bigger and brighter—up to 14% larger and 30% more luminous than usual. According to Khadijah Al Hariri, operations manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, these moons will be easily visible from anywhere in the UAE with a clear view of the horizon.
The upcoming supermoons are:
- October 7 – Hunter’s Moon: Traditionally linked to hunting season, when animals were fattened for the winter.
- November 5 – Beaver Moon: Named for the time when beavers prepare their homes and trappers set up before winter freeze.
- December 5 – Cold Moon: Associated with the arrival of the year s longest, chilliest nights.
For the best viewing, Al Hariri recommends catching the moonrise just after sunset or moonset before sunrise. Desert areas, beaches, or elevated spots away from city lights offer ideal conditions. If visiting remote locations, taking safety measures is advised.
Photography enthusiasts are encouraged to use tripods for stability, frame the moon with interesting foregrounds like trees or buildings, and carefully adjust camera settings to avoid overexposure.
Meteor Showers to Illuminate Night Skies
Adding to the cosmic spectacle, three meteor showers will streak across UAE skies in the last quarter of the year:
- October 21 – Orionids: Stemming from Halley’s Comet, these meteors can reach speeds of 66 km/s, with around 20 meteors per hour at their peak.
- November 17 – Leonids: Known for occasional intense bursts, this year’s event will show around 10–15 meteors per hour.
- December 14 – Geminids: Among the most active showers, with over 100 colorful meteors per hour, moving slowly and vividly.
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To enjoy these events, head to dark, open areas and lie back for a wide view of the sky. Patience is key, as meteors can appear at any moment.
