Supermoon and Meteor Shower Viewing Spots in Abu Dhabi
It’s been an amazing year for stargazers, and we’ve got one last cosmic spectacle to look forward to before 2024 comes to a close. If you’re a fan of supermoons, meteor showers, and rare celestial events, this is the one you don’t want to miss!
This November, the final supermoon of the year is making its appearance – and it’s no ordinary moon. Meet the Beaver Moon, and get ready for a double treat with the Leonids meteor shower!
What Makes This Supermoon Special?
On Friday, November 15, the Beaver Moon will light up the UAE skies, and it’s going to be a sight worth staying up for. This supermoon is extra exciting because, alongside it, we’ll also get a stunning meteor shower – the Leonids. And don’t worry if you miss the exact date, the supermoon will be visible for two days after, giving you plenty of time to catch the magic.
But why the quirky name? The Beaver Moon gets its name from North American traditions, marking the time when beavers start seeking shelter in their lodges, having gathered enough food for the winter. It’s also called the Deer Rutting Moon, Digging Moon, or Frost Moon, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Pretty cool, right?
Supermoon 101: Why Does It Look So Big?
A supermoon occurs when the full moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, known as perigee. This makes it appear much larger and brighter in the sky than usual, which is why it’s such a spectacular sight.
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The Leonid Meteor Shower: A Cosmic Bonus
As if the Beaver Moon wasn’t enough, the Leonid meteor shower will peak around the same time. The Leonids are caused by Earth passing through debris left by Comet Tempel-Tuttle, creating those gorgeous streaks of light in the sky that we call meteors.
The Leonids shower typically produces about 15 meteors per hour, but the real highlight is their fireball meteors, which are brighter and more dramatic than your average streak of light. NASA even considers the Leonids a major meteor shower, so expect a dazzling show!
Best Places to Enjoy the Supermoon in Abu Dhabi
If you’re in Abu Dhabi and want to make the most of this celestial event, here are the best spots and activities to enjoy the supermoon and the Leonid meteor shower:
Supermoon Kayak Tour at the Louvre Abu Dhabi
Want to enjoy the supermoon from the water? Husaak Adventures has got you covered with full moon kayak tours around the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi. Glide across the water under the glow of the Beaver Moon and soak in the beauty of Saadiyat Island at night. It’s a fantastic way to experience both the moon and the stars!
- Dates: November 15–17
- Time: 7:30 pm and 9:00 pm
- Cost: Dhs126
- Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
- Book at: husaak.ae
Supermoon Yoga at Jubail Mangrove Park
For a more zen way to celebrate the full moon, head to Jubail Mangrove Park for a peaceful yoga session under the moonlight. Set among the stunning mangroves, it’s a perfect opportunity to find some calm while enjoying the celestial show. Just remember to bring your own yoga mat!
- Date: Friday, November 15
- Time: 7:00 pm
- Cost: Dhs105
- Location: Jubail Mangrove Island
- Book at: jubailisland.ae
Al Quaa Milky Way Spot (Abu Dhabi)
For those who want to venture a bit farther out for an uninterrupted stargazing experience, head to Al Quaa Milky Way Spot. Located about 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi towards Al Ain, this spot is known for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. It’s a great place to see both the Beaver Moon and the Leonids in their full glory.
- Location: 23.604633, 54.750256 (Google Maps)
- Cost: Free
- Open: 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Location: Abu Dhabi