Residents in the UAE are in for a celestial treat this January with two incredible events: the Quadrantids meteor shower and a planetary parade. Both events provide a perfect opportunity for stargazers to enjoy nature’s beauty.
Quadrantids Meteor Shower
The Quadrantids, the first major meteor shower of 2025, will peak on January 4. Known for its bright fireballs, it offers a dazzling display of up to 120 meteors per hour during its peak between 2 AM and 4 AM.
How to Watch:
- Location: Choose a dark area away from city lights (deserts or mountains).
- Preparation: Let your eyes adjust to the dark for 20–30 minutes.
- Spotting: Focus on the Boötes constellation, near the bright star Arcturus.
The Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) is hosting a special event at Al Qudra Desert from 11 PM (Jan 3) to 3 AM (Jan 4) for enthusiasts, providing telescopes for a better view.
What Causes It?
The meteor shower is caused by debris from the asteroid 2003 EH1, which burns up in the Earth’s atmosphere at high speeds, creating streaks of light.
Planet Parade
The planet parade begins later in January and will continue until early February. During this event, multiple planets will appear aligned in the sky.
Key Details:
- Visible Planets:
- Naked eye: Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.
- Telescope: Uranus and Neptune.
- Best Time: Shortly after sunset for Venus and Saturn, and later in the evening for Mars and Jupiter.
Highlights:
- Venus: Bright after sunset, sets by midnight.
- Mars: Visible all night, with peak visibility around January 16.
- Jupiter and Saturn: Bright in the evening sky.
For the best experience, head to a clear location with an unobstructed horizon. Using a telescope will allow you to see Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons.
Don’t Miss It!
These two celestial events are rare opportunities to enjoy the wonders of the universe. Grab your friends or family, find a dark spot, and enjoy the show as the skies come alive to welcome 2025.
