The Al-Ajari Scientific Center announced that the skies over Kuwait will be filled with a spectacular sequence of astronomical events throughout August, offering stargazers and skywatchers a rare visual feast.
Kicking off on August 6, the conjunction of Saturn and Neptune will take place. These two distant planets will share the same celestial longitude, with Saturn appearing just 1.08 degrees south of Neptune, visible low in the sky around sunrise or sunset at an altitude of 21 degrees above the eastern horizon, reports Al-Rai daily.
On August 9, the Sturgeon Moon will grace the skies — traditionally named for the time of year when sturgeon fish are most easily caught in North America’s Great Lakes.
A highlight of the month will occur on August 12, with the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter, the two brightest planets in the night sky. They will appear less than one degree apart.
This dazzling planetary pairing coincides with the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, which will continue through August 13. However, visibility may be reduced due to the presence of a bright gibbous moon.
On August 19, Mercury will reach its greatest western elongation, appearing furthest from the sun in the morning sky — the best opportunity to observe the elusive inner planet.
A few days later, on August 21, Mercury will appear near the waning crescent moon, followed by the new moon on August 23, when the sun and moon align, with the Earth on the opposite side of the moon.
The month concludes with a striking view on August 26, as the Moon and Mars will appear in close proximity — just 27.2 degrees apart — though visibility in Kuwait City might be challenging due to their low position, only 14 degrees above the horizon.
The Al-Ajari Center encourages astronomy enthusiasts to look up and enjoy the rare alignments and displays this month, while remaining mindful of optimal viewing conditions.
