Riyadh, November 16, 2024 – The night sky over Saudi Arabia was illuminated by a breathtaking celestial phenomenon as the year’s final supermoon graced the heavens. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) captured stunning images of this extraordinary event, which marked the fourth and last supermoon of 2024, providing a spectacular visual treat for skywatchers across the Kingdom.
According to the Jeddah Astronomical Society, a supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, a position known as perigee. During this phase, the moon appears significantly larger and brighter than usual, offering a rare opportunity to witness the moon in its most resplendent form. This particular supermoon was at an approximate distance of 361,866 kilometers from Earth, making it one of the most notable astronomical events of the year.
The supermoon reached its full phase at precisely 12:28 AM Makkah time, aligning directly opposite the sun in its orbit. This alignment enhanced its visual brilliance and size, captivating both amateur stargazers and professional astronomers alike.
While such celestial phenomena are known more for their visual allure than their physical impact, they do exert subtle influences on Earth's natural systems. The increased gravitational pull associated with a supermoon can lead to higher-than-normal tides, known as "spring tides." These tidal effects, though temporary, are well-documented occurrences during supermoon events and provide an intriguing intersection of astronomy and Earth sciences.
As the final supermoon of 2024, this event brought a fitting close to a year of remarkable astronomical occurrences. Across Saudi Arabia, residents gathered to admire the moon’s majestic glow, capturing moments that underscored the enduring fascination with our closest celestial neighbor.
The SPA’s photographic documentation of the event further highlights the Kingdom’s growing interest in astronomy and the natural sciences. With its clear desert skies and increasing focus on scientific outreach, Saudi Arabia continues to cultivate an environment where the wonders of the cosmos can be appreciated by all.
