Muscat: The skies of Oman will witness a total lunar eclipse on the evening of Sunday, September 7, an astronomical event that will also be visible across most continents of the world.
The Oman Astronomical Society has begun preparations to observe the rare phenomenon in cooperation with the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, governorates across the Sultanate, and Muscat Municipality.
Salim bin Saif Al-Siyabi, Board Member of the Oman Astronomical Society and Director of the Lunar Eclipse Observation Project, said the event represents a rare opportunity for Oman to position itself as a leading regional and international hub for scientific tourism. He noted that the country’s diverse natural landscapes and unique terrain make it an attractive destination for astrophotographers, researchers, and astronomy enthusiasts from around the world, alongside citizens, residents, and visitors.
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Al-Siyabi explained that the preparations include organizing public viewing events with telescopes at major tourist landmarks in various governorates, along with publishing simplified scientific materials to promote astronomical awareness among the wider community. The program will also feature lectures, specialized workshops, and evening observation sessions, offering participants an inspiring blend of science, culture, and exploration.
In addition to public activities, the project aims to document and photograph the eclipse scientifically, while encouraging universities, research institutions, and astronomy centers to conduct studies during the event. Institutions such as Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, and astronomy clubs at colleges will also participate, providing valuable learning opportunities for students and researchers.
Al-Siyabi emphasized that such astronomical observations have far-reaching benefits for youth, nurturing a spirit of discovery and paving the way for a new generation of astronomers capable of advancing Oman’s role in global space science research.
He concluded by inviting citizens, residents, visitors, and both local and international media to join the observation activities, underscoring the importance of the event in promoting Oman as a distinguished global destination for astronomical and scientific tourism.
