Reconnecting with the Cosmos in the UAE’s Darkest Corner
The United Arab Emirates, renowned for its impressive urban development and luminous skylines, has transformed significantly over recent decades, establishing itself as a major center for global commerce and tourism. However, amidst this modern brilliance, a group of volunteers from the Dubai Astronomy Group is facilitating a unique return to nature, guiding individuals to experience the night sky as their ancestors once did. These excursions take participants to the Al Quaa Desert, one of the few remaining areas in the Emirates untouched by urban light pollution, providing a rare opportunity to witness the Milky Way.
The Appeal of Al Quaa Desert
Located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Abu Dhabi, the Al Quaa Desert is surprisingly accessible, situated just off a major highway leading to the oasis city of Al Ain. Despite some overhead lighting on a section known as Razeen Road, the desert expanse beyond quickly plunges into profound darkness, creating an ideal environment for astronomical observation. Sheeraz Awan, the general manager of the Dubai Astronomy Group, emphasized the profound impact of these experiences, stating that they foster an appreciation for humanity’s place within the galaxy.
An Evening Under the Stars
During a recent late May weekend, dozens of people gathered in the desert for a stargazing event. After navigating an unpaved road deeper into the dunes, past campers enjoying the last cool nights before the intense UAE summer, participants settled in. Under the faint glow of a small LED lamp marking the parking area, a fascinating encounter with a camel spider was noted, a reminder of the desert’s vibrant ecosystem. Families speaking a mix of Arabic, English, and Russian spread out on carpets, eagerly awaiting the celestial display.
As the half-moon gradually descended below the horizon, the faint, cloudy outline of the Milky Way began to emerge, visible to the naked eye. Awan guided the observers, using a laser pointer to highlight the galaxy’s features, eliciting gasps and exclamations from the crowd. The Dubai Astronomy Group volunteers identified this period as one of the prime times of the year for viewing the galaxy. Throughout the evening, meteors occasionally streaked across the exceptionally dark sky, adding to the spectacle. Some attendees utilized telescopes for closer views of individual stars, while others lay directly on the cool desert sand, learning techniques for long-exposure photography with their mobile phones to capture the overhead galaxy.
A Timeless Connection
As the night progressed, participants gradually made their way back to their vehicles, beginning the journey toward the illuminated highways and cities of the UAE. Awan reflected on the enduring appeal of stargazing, reminding the group that observing the night sky is an activity that has captivated humanity throughout history, offering a timeless connection to the cosmos.
Source: UAE’s ‘darkest spot’ reveals a rare view of the Milky Way
