Rafha: A striking natural phenomenon unfolds at the entrance of Al-Habkah Cave, west of Rafha, where moonlight interacting with the cave's rock formations casts a shadowy shape resembling a black scorpion. The spectacle combines elements of astronomy and geology, offering a rare glimpse of nature's artistry in the desert north of the Kingdom.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the effect occurs when the full moon's light hits the cave entrance at precise angles, casting shadows on the rock formations to form the scorpion-like silhouette. Observers and astrophotography enthusiasts have been drawn to the site, marveling at how celestial light meets rugged geology to produce such a unique visual, highlighting the Kingdom's natural richness and the wealth of sites that attract enthusiasts of astronomical and natural phenomena.
Barjas Al-Fulaih of the AFAQ Society for Astronomy told SPA that the phenomenon is real and can be seen with the naked eye from a specific vantage point and at a precise time. He explained that when the moonlight strikes horizontally, the cave entrance protruding from the hillside appears like a black scorpion, with the right side facing east standing out more prominently than the other, giving the formation a clearer and more defined shape when viewed from the opposite hill.
Al-Fulaih said he discovered the formation in winter while waiting for dawn to enter the cave. He noted that as the moon rises around 8 PM, the scorpion-like shape gradually forms at the base of the hill in a striking display, which inspired the cave's nickname, 'The Black Scorpion.' He added that the phenomenon also repeats with the first light of sunrise.
The cave itself is a notable natural feature in Northern Borders Region, with over 500 meters of explored passages beneath the surface. It has three main corridors of varying width and height, along with several branching tunnels and pits.
Al-Habkah (the Black Scorpion) Cave is also a natural habitat for wildlife, including wolves, hyenas, and foxes. The National Center for Wildlife reported finding remains of hunting leopards in the area two years ago.
The cave is located about 160 kilometers west of Rafha, near the village of Al-Habkah, which constitutes one of the region's ancient water resources.