Oman to witness rare astronomical event on Dec 26
A rare astronomical phenomenon is approaching Oman’s sky by the end of this year. The Oman Astronomical Society (OAS) launched the programmes and activities of the Annular Solar Eclipse Project 2019.
The project was launched in collaboration with the ministries of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, Education, Health, The Research Council, Public Authority of Radio and Television, the Photographic Society of Oman and several related private and government entities.
The project is part of the community readiness to observe and photograph the astronomical phenomenon known as the Annular Eclipse which will take place during sunrise on December 26.
Ali al Shibani, vice chairman of the OAS and project supervisor, said in a statement, “The Annular Solar Eclipse phenomenon is considered a rare natural phenomenon that is very fascinating to watch and observe. Some governorates will witness the significant phenomenon of the annular eclipse in which the sun will appear in a ring-like shape. Those governorates are Dhahirah, Dakhliyah, Al Wusta, and South Sharqiyah.
“Other areas, on the other hand, will be able to witness and observe a partial solar eclipse. The eclipse will last for about 2 hours and 29 minutes in Oman, while the annular eclipse will last for three minutes in the areas located on the path of the Annular Solar Eclipse.”
Shibani said that with the project they aim to make Oman one of the best sites to watch the Annular Solar Eclipse in 2019 and promote scientific tourism in Oman. “It also aims to educate all social groups in the community about the solar eclipse and to offer proper tools to safely observe the eclipse. This project will also enable the public to participate in observing the eclipse and taking pictures of it by attending eclipse observation events organised all around Oman.”
He added, “There will be astronomical camps in several locations on the path of the Annular Solar Eclipse, where the observers will have a special experience that will leave them inspired, taken by the beauty and in awe. Moreover, this project targets researchers and scientific entities to encourage them to conduct researches and studies on solar eclipse and to create a new generation of astronomers and amateurs.”
An educational programme to spread astronomical awareness will also be held for school students in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
The OAS will also organise an astronomical camp for people with hearing disabilities in collaboration with the Omani Association for the Hearing Impaired. It will announce the locations of the community observation activities that will take place all around the country.