Milky Way now visible to UAE residents for 5 months as summer begins; how to spot Galactic River

Residents in the UAE can the Milky Way in the night sky, also known as the Galactic River. The galaxy's main arm and core are visible late at night.

According to Ahmed Hassan, Technical Director and Astrophotographer at Dubai Astronomy Group, the best location to view the Milky Way is Al Qua'a in Abu Dhabi. It is the closest dark-sky site to most cities in the country.

“After leaving the paved road, a compact dirt path leads to an open area suitable for observation," he said. He also recommended parking beside the path and walking a short distance into the sand to avoid car lights and dust.

Ahmed Hassan. Photo: Supplied

Best time to observe

The Milky Way is visible in the UAE sky from May to October, with its core reaching its highest and clearest point during July and August.

According to Al Bayan newspaper, Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, said, "Summer nights are the best time to observe the Milky Way, especially from May to August. The galaxy's core is visible in the sky during this period, and July offers the clearest view.

Milky Way shot by iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Al Jarwan explained that the Milky Way is an arc of stars extending from the northeast to the southwest. The part between the Scorpius and Sagittarius constellations is the densest, as the galaxy's centre lies in that direction.

Viewing conditions

While describing the best conditions for viewing the Milky Way, Ahmed said, "Good viewing conditions include a clear sky with no clouds, no moon, low wind, and dust. The best time is after light rain, which clears the air. Observers should avoid light pollution by travelling away from cities.”

Milky Way shot by Samsung Note 20.

Observers should try to travel at least 35 kilometres away from city lights to reduce light pollution, he advised.

"Arrive early to allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. Bring basic supplies, go with a group, and use red flashlights to maintain night vision. Once settled in a quiet, dark spot, look up and enjoy the clear view of the Milky Way stretching across the sky," he added.

How to observe

Ahmed noted that the Milky Way can be observed with the naked eye after about 20 minutes in darkness, with no telescope required.

For a better view of details, consider the following options:

• Use binoculars to see star clusters and nebulae

• Use a camera with a wide lens mounted on a tripod

• Use a modern smartphone equipped with night mode, ensuring it is on a stable surface

"To observe or photograph it, choose a night with a new moon or a weak crescent and avoid city lights," said Al Jarwan.

Stargazers have been advised to use a sky map app to locate the Scorpius constellation in the southeast as the Milky Way lies next to it.

Travel tips

• Go with a group and bring two vehicles

• Tell someone your route

• Carry water and basic supplies

• Check your fuel and tires

• Use red flashlights to protect your night vision

• Avoid music and bright lights to keep the area quiet and dark