Tonight, you’ll probably be wondering why most of Dubai is gawking at the skies, phones in hand. Is it a bird…It’s A Plane…? Nope. It’s just the Strawberry Supermoon, and you will be able to see this full moon, one of the biggest and brightest of the year, tonight in the Dubai skies.
We’re keeping our fingers and toes crossed that this morning’s haze and mild sandstorm clears out and grants stargazers, astro-photographers and selenophiles a chance to ogle at la luna at her most beautiful. Dust off those telescopes and cameras.
So why is it called a Strawberry Supermoon and will it be pink?
That’s three more adjectives than we’re used to seeing before mentions of our beloved satellite but the prefixes all come with a logical reason.
The moniker Strawberry is because it makes its appearance during strawberry harvest season for the Algonquin Native American tribe in the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada.
While it won’t appear pink, the Strawberry Supermoon is likely to be tinged with a reddish or rusty hue, as it will reflect sunlight as it rises above the horizon.
What makes it a Supermoon then?
On the other hand, there’s nothing figurative about the word ‘Super’. A Supermoon by definition is any full moon that is at its closest distance to Earth in its orbit. Yes, the moon will appear larger than usual, in fact, a full 17% bigger and 30% brighter according to NASA.
Why should I celebrate it? And most importantly, how?
Celestial events of this variety are rare. Supermoons only happen three to four times a year and the next ones are only happening on July 13 and August 12.
So, step out and witness the moon in all its glowing glory at one of these two venues depending on whether you’re a budding astronomer or a nature-loving free spirit.
1. Supermoon Event at Al Thuraya Astronomy Center, Mushrif Park
Amateur astronomers and stargazers should make a beeline to the Al Thuraya Astronomy Centre in Mushrif Park. Their detailed Supermoon event includes a lecture explaining the phenomenon, and a Q&A session, followed by a naked-eye observation and telescope observation.
Tickets cost AED 70 and are available at here or WhatsApp 042216603.
2. Full Moon Party at NOEPE
The creekside fusion restaurant at Park Hyatt is hosting a dedicated dinner experience to celebrate the astronomical phenomenon.
You’ll get to gorge on a spread of oysters, ceviche, lobsters, sashimi & sushi, an array of scrummy desserts and sip on artistic beverages and watch the full moon illuminates the sky and light up the creek’s waters.
Go dressed in your best whites!
Call 0504500314 for bookings.