MAKKAH : Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Maharbi, Vice Chairman of the Studies and Research Committee at the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, said the phenomenon occurs when the sun reaches a position directly above the Kaaba, causing its rays to fall almost vertically on the sacred structure and significantly shortening shadows in Mecca at the moment of alignment.

In a statement to the Oman News Agency, he pointed out that said the alignment is expected to occur at 1:18 pm Oman time. He noted that its coincidence with Eid Al-Adha gives the event a unique spiritual dimension, as Muslims across the world turn their attention toward the Kaaba during one of the holiest occasions in the Islamic calendar.

He explained that the phenomenon takes place approximately twice each year — around May 27 or 28 and again on July 15 or 16 — due to the sun’s apparent annual movement toward the Tropic of Cancer before returning southward. However, its occurrence on Eid Al-Adha is considered extremely rare because of differences between the solar calendar and the lunar-based Hijri calendar.

According to astronomical calculations, the last similar coincidence occurred around 139 years ago, while the next is expected in approximately 29 years, followed by longer intervals in the future.

Al Maharbi said the phenomenon also offers a practical way to accurately determine the Qibla direction. Observers in locations where the sun is visible at the time of the zenith can place a straight object vertically on a flat surface and observe its shadow. The direction opposite to the shadow points toward the Kaaba.

He added that the sun’s altitude above Mecca during the event will reach approximately 89.5 degrees, resulting in extremely short shadows at the moment of alignment.

Al Maharbi stressed that such astronomical phenomena highlight the precision of the cosmic system and provide an opportunity to promote scientific awareness while encouraging reflection on the harmony between science, faith, and the universe.

He also noted that the event can be observed with the naked eye without specialized equipment, while cautioning against looking directly at the sun to avoid eye damage.

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