Residents in the UAE are ready for yet another opportunity for a celestial treat to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos this Friday.
On May 19, after 6:45 pm, the much anticipated ‘Da Vinci glow’ phenomenon is ready to illuminate the crescent Moon in Dubai.
This event is more memorable because it can be observed with the naked eye, allowing citizens to truly appreciate the captivating radiance of the crescent Moon, which will be adorned by the ‘ Da Vinci Glow.’
The ” Da Vinci glow,” or the ” Earthshine,” is a phenomenon where a ghostly shine appears on the Moon, illuminating its edge. This phenomenon is named after Leonardo da Vinci, who first explained it in the early 16th century.
But this phenomenon is only visible during a precious time window shortly before sunrise and after sunset.
Sarath Raj, Project Director at the Amity Dubai Satellite Ground Station and AmiSat Amity University in Dubai, explained the phenomenon, stating, ” In Dubai, the next New Moon is projected to occur on May 19, 2023, and on this date, the Moon will rise in the East- Northeast (690) at 05:05 and set in the West- Northwest (2940)at 18:54, offering a notable celestial spectacle for the observers in the region”.
As per Nasa, Leonardo da Vinci observed and documented the eerie gleam known as the ‘ Da Vinci glow’ approximately 500 years ago.
Besides, Raj added that ” Earthshine, also known as Da Vinci Glow, is a phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is reflected on the surface of the Earth and illuminates the dark side of the Moon. This recalled light reached the Moon, making it visible as a faint glow.
Earthshine is caused by the reflection of sunlight from the Earth’s atmosphere, clouds, and surface, which bounces back toward the Moon. It can be observed from the Earth with the naked eye, but it is often easier to see with the help of binoculars or telescopes.
Earth Shine provides:
- Valuable data for estimating Earth’s albedo.
- Studying atmospheric composition.
- Monitoring climate change.
- Refining techniques for exoplanet characterization.
Moreover, Earthshine observations have historical significance and contribute to space exploration by optimizing instruments and cameras for lunar missions.
Mr. Raj further highlights, “The observers can witness the memorable occurrence of Earthshine, epitomized by a slender crescent Moon gracing the night sky. On a New Moon day, the Moon’s illumination reaches 0 percent as its position aligns between the Sun and Earth. This temporal correlation between the Moon’s movements and the Sun’s and Earth’s position establishes a consistent pattern where the Moon rises approximately simultaneously with the Sun and sets around the same time as the Sun disappears below the horizon.
