Jeddah: February skies will offer a variety of astronomical phenomena, providing an excellent opportunity for observation and allowing astronomy enthusiasts to track the moon, planets, and stars while enjoying spectacular celestial displays.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Jeddah Astronomy Society Director Majed Abu Zahra explained that observing faint celestial objects during the first week of February may be challenging due to bright moonlight, as the full moon occurs on February 1. He noted that on the night of February 2 or 3, depending on the observer's location, the waning gibbous moon will pass in front of Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation Leo, in a phenomenon known as an occultation.
Additionally, on February 18, the thin crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan will appear between the planets Mercury and Venus shortly after sunset, a sight best observed from a clear western horizon free of obstructions.
Abu Zahra also pointed out that Saturn will make its final appearance this month, visible low in the southwestern sky at the beginning of the month before setting early in the evening.