Saudi Arabia to Witness Longest Lunar Eclipse in Years on September 7

Skies over Saudi Arabia are expected to witness a total lunar eclipse on Sunday that will be fully visible in the Kingdom as well as in Asia, Africa, and parts of Australia and Europe, lasting around 83 minutes and making it one of the longest in recent years.

 The partial eclipse is scheduled to begin at 7:27 p.m. Saudi time, with the total eclipse starting at 8:30 p.m. and ending at 9:53 p.m. The entire event will conclude at 11:57 p.m.

 King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) Professor Dr. ‏Zaki Al-Mostafa‏ explained that a lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is positioned between the sun and the moon, causing the moon to pass into the Earth's shadow. This phenomenon is safe to view with the naked eye and can be seen from anywhere on the night side of the Earth.

 As a national laboratory, KACST monitors astronomical phenomena like solar and lunar eclipses, new moons, and meteor showers. The city uses advanced astronomical equipment in both fixed and mobile observatories and has qualified scientific personnel, solidifying its position as a national reference in this field. KACST also promotes public astronomical awareness through educational and interactive events.