Rare total lunar eclipse to occur in the UAE: Notable locations and activities for viewing the blood moon in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah are revealed.

On the night of September 7, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to host a mesmerising celestial event: a total lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon. This astronomical spectacle will be visible to nearly 87% of the world's population, making it a global phenomenon not to be missed.

The Dubai Astronomy Group (DAG) has organised a flagship gathering at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai for this historic event. Tickets for the event, priced at Dh250 for adults and Dh200 for children under 13, promise an unforgettable experience filled with telescope observations, talks, astrophotography sessions, and interactive experiences.

For those who cannot attend in person, the DAG is hosting a global livestream event on YouTube. This virtual event, running from 7pm to 1am GST, involves partners across six continents and promises to be a unique opportunity to witness the Blood Moon from different parts of the world.

One of the highlights of the virtual event will be an attempt to capture the Blood Moon with the Burj Khalifa in the frame, led by international photographer Rami Dibo.

For those in the UAE, two top spots for viewing the eclipse have been recommended: Al Quaa Milky Way Spot in Abu Dhabi, known for its dark environment suitable for stargazing, and Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, with its higher elevation and clearer skies. Hotel and residential towers in Dubai, especially those with an open skyline and a view of Burj Khalifa, are also recommended for viewing the eclipse.

The timeline of the eclipse is as follows: The penumbral eclipse begins at 7.28pm, followed by the partial eclipse at 8.27pm, the total eclipse at 9.30pm, the maximum eclipse (totality) at 10.12pm, the end of the total eclipse at 10.53pm, the end of the partial eclipse at 11.56pm, and finally, the end of the penumbral eclipse at 12.56am (Sept 8).

This Blood Moon is significant because it is one of the longest and most photogenic lunar eclipses of recent years, with 82 minutes of totality. If you miss this Blood Moon, the next lunar eclipse visible from the UAE will be partial on July 6, 2028, and the next total eclipse visible will be on December 31, 2028, right on New Year's Eve.

The DAG's event at the Mohammed bin Rashid Library will include a talk about the lunar eclipse, a live astrophotography workshop, a Q&A session with experts, telescope observations, and closing remarks. People can use free apps like SkyView or Stellarium to see where the Moon is going to rise and eclipse.

Whether you choose to attend the event in person or watch it virtually, this Blood Moon promises to be a stunning sight that will leave you in awe of the universe's beauty. So, mark your calendars for September 7 and get ready to witness this celestial spectacle.