MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman will witness a total lunar eclipse on Sunday, September 7. The eclipse will be visible across most continents.
The Oman Society for Astronomy and Space (OSAS) said that it is preparing to observe the lunar eclipse in cooperation with the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the governors’ offices and Muscat Municipality.
Salem bin Saif al Siyabi, a member of the Board of Directors of the OSAS and Director of the Total Lunar Eclipse Observation Project, said that observing this phenomenon contributes to highlighting the Sultanate of Oman as one of the most prominent global destinations for observing and documenting astronomical events. It also enhances the country’s presence in international forums in addition to its role in achieving direct and indirect economic benefits for the tourism sector and various related activities in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Al Siyabi explained that preparations include organising public events for observing the lunar eclipse through telescopes in prominent tourist attractions across the governorates. He noted that the OSAS is preparing specialised scientific publications explaining the phenomenon and its observation methods in a simplified manner to disseminate astronomical awareness among the public.
He added, “The events will include accompanying activities such as theoretical lectures, workshops and astronomical observation evenings providing participants with a scientific and cultural experience.”
He pointed out that the events are not limited to public observation alone, but also aim to photograph and scientifically document the phenomenon and to engage scientific research institutions, universities and specialised centres to conduct scientific studies and research during the eclipse. This will enhance the production of astronomical knowledge and position Oman at the forefront of international astronomical research.
Al Siyabi said that the participation of higher education institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, and astronomy clubs at universities and colleges, represents an important scientific contribution, as it provides students and researchers with direct opportunities for field learning and opens up new horizons for them in the field of scientific research and practical applications which contributes to building an aware and capable generation in the fields of astronomy and space. — ONA
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