JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s sky will witness on Wednesday the first phenomenon of partial lunar eclipse in 2018 in conjunction with the presence of the moon at a very close distance from the Earth.
The moon will appear larger than normal. It is an extremely rare celestial event known as a super blue blood moon. According to NASA, the super blue blood moon was last seen when the three elements came together in 1866.
The moon will turn into near darkness after falling behind the Earth with the emergence of the full moon of the current Jamad Al-Awwal month.
During 2018, the Kingdom’s sky will witness a second lunar eclipse in the middle of Dhul Qaada month, corresponding to July 28.
It could be seen as a total lunar eclipse in all regions of the Kingdom, an astronomer at the University of King Abdul Aziz, Malham Hindi, told the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
“The partial lunar eclipse that will occur on Wednesday will happen with the beginning of the moon’s exit from behind the moon’s umbra (shadow),” Hindi said.
The moonrise will start in the Kingdom from the eastern region at 5:22 p.m. with a view of 76 percent.
The moonrise starts consecutively in the rest of the Kingdom. The moon shines in Riyadh at 5:39 p.m. with an eclipse of 37 percent in the regions of the northern borders with 36 percent, Qassim with 34 percent, Hail with 22 percent, Najran with 14 percent, Abha with 4 percent, Jazan with 2 percent and Al-Baha with 1 percent.
Hindi pointed out that the phases of the lunar eclipse end with the moon’s exit from the shadow of the Earth at 6:11 p.m. before its rise on the regions of Makkah, Madinah and Tabuk.
Therefore, the people of these areas will not be able to see the eclipse, while the moon will remain affected by the penumbra of the Earth’s shadow, which is seen by all the population of the Kingdom after the end of the partial eclipse until it ends at 7:08 p.m. Saudi Arabia time.
He explained that the people of Alaska, Russia, East Asia and Australia can see the total lunar eclipse at all stages after the beginning of the eclipse on Jan. 31 at 2:48 p.m. Saudi Arabia time. The moon totally enters behind the Earth’s shadow at 3:51 p.m.
Saudi Arabia to witness partial lunar eclipse on Jan. 31
Saudi Arabia to witness partial lunar eclipse on Jan. 31
India Embassy, consulate celebrate Republic Day
- Flag hoisting, cultural performances, and a reception highlight India–Saudi friendship and growing partnership
JEDDAH: The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated in Riyadh and Jeddah on Monday.
Th events brought together the Indian community, Saudi dignitaries, and members of the diplomatic corps, highlighting the friendship between India and Saudi Arabia.
The celebrations in Riyadh began with Ambassador Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan unfurling the tricolour, the singing of the national anthem, and floral tributes at Mahatma Gandhi’s bust.
Khan read the Indian president’s message to the nation and Indians worldwide, followed by cultural performances by schoolchildren and the Indian community.
The performances included special features marking the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram.
A photo booth highlighting the song’s significance was set up, and later, the ambassador interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and local journalists.
In Jeddah, the celebrations began in the morning with the unfurling of the Indian national flag at the Consulate General of India.
Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri read out a message from the president of India, acknowledging the dedication of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between the two nations.
Patriotic performances by students from the International Indian School added a festive touch, and the consul general addressed the performers while interacting with community members.
The celebrations continued in the evening with a reception at Al-Sohba Hall, Park Hyatt, attended by consuls general from different countries, along with prominent Saudi and Indian dignitaries.
Fareed bin Saad Al-Shehri, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the chief guest, said he always feels delighted at such events, which showcase the blending of Saudi and Indian cultures.
The guest of honor was Capt. Ali Salem Al-Mehwari, director-general of the Jeddah Islamic Port.
Speaking to Arab News, the Indian consul general said the reception reflects the strength of India–Saudi Arabia relations and underscores the complementary visions of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and India’s Vision 2047.
“Both countries are working toward inclusive growth, economic diversification, and long-term partnership,” he added.
Suri said: “India and Saudi Arabia share a robust strategic partnership that has strengthened in recent years across trade, investment, energy, education, and cultural exchange.
“Educational and professional cooperation is expanding, people-to-people ties are deepening, and cultural interactions continue to thrive. This partnership is creating long-term opportunities for mutual growth and shared prosperity.”
