2025 UAE Sky Spectacle: Supermoons, Meteors!

Three Supermoons and Three Meteor Showers Illuminate UAE Sky in 2025's Final Months

In the last quarter of the year, residents of the United Arab Emirates can witness special celestial phenomena. From October to December, three spectacular supermoons and three meteor showers are expected, which can be observed with the naked eye—no telescope or other equipment needed. Those who stay adequately far from city lights can witness the year's largest moon and even dozens of meteors streaking across the clear night sky.

What is a Supermoon?

A supermoon occurs when the moon is in the full moon phase and is at its closest point to Earth (perigee). As a result, the moon appears about 14% larger and 30% brighter than usual. The phenomenon is not only scientifically interesting but also aesthetically stunning—especially when observed near the horizon, after sunset or before sunrise.

The last three months of 2025 will feature supermoons with names derived from Native American traditions, which are linked to the season and events in nature.

October 7 – Hunter’s Moon

This moon refers to the hunting season when people prepared for winter by hunting game needed for the colder months. This supermoon will be particularly large and bright, as it will be just a few days away from the moon's closest point to Earth.

November 5 – Beaver Moon

Named for the beavers that actively prepare for winter during this period by building dams and lodges. In the past, it was also the time when fur trappers set their traps before the lakes and swamps froze.

December 5 – Cold Moon

This name speaks for itself: it heralds the onset of winter, with the longest and coldest nights arriving. The December supermoon can offer a stunning view, especially over desert dunes or coastal horizons.

How to Observe the Supermoon?

The best way is to find a location with little light pollution—desert areas, secluded beaches, or elevated spots are ideal. The moon is especially impressive when low in the sky, so observe it at sunset or sunrise.

For those into astrophotography, it’s advisable to use a tripod, a zoom lens, and a longer exposure time—ensuring the moon doesn’t appear overly bright in the shot. An interesting effect can be achieved by photographing the moon with an earthly object—such as a mountain ridge, tree, or building—bringing contrast and depth to the image.

Meteor Showers at the Year's End

Alongside the supermoons, three significant meteor showers will occur in the final months of 2025. Meteor showers are spectacular events when dust particles and debris from space enter Earth's atmosphere, igniting from friction—creating what are commonly known as 'shooting stars.'

October 21–22 – Orionids

The Orionids originate from the famous Halley’s Comet, typically producing fast, bright meteors, often leaving glowing trails in their wake. The shower peaks after midnight on October 21, lasting until dawn. Under suitable conditions, up to 20 meteors per hour can be seen.

November 17 – Leonids

This shower is particularly renowned for past 'meteor storms,' during which thousands of meteors could be seen per hour. In 2025, the phenomenon will be more subdued, with an expectation of about 10-15 meteors per hour. The Leonids originate from the Tempel–Tuttle Comet, and the meteors often leave lasting trails.

December 14 – Geminids

This is expected to be the most impressive meteor shower of the year. The Geminids are unique as they come from an asteroid (3200 Phaethon) rather than a comet. Therefore, the meteors are often colorful: they can be yellowish, green, blue, or red. Ideally, up to 120 meteors can be observed per hour. The meteors move slower, making them easier to spot.

Points to Consider When Observing Meteor Showers?

The most important factor is a dark, open sky. It's advisable to move as far away as possible from city lights and find a location with a wide view of the sky. It's suggested to bring a mattress or blanket for comfortable sky gazing.

Patience is also essential—it's not guaranteed that you'll see shooting stars every minute. However, the experience is guaranteed nevertheless, especially when combined with the silence of nature and the charm of the stars.

Summary

The final months of 2025 offer special experiences for skywatching enthusiasts. Three successive supermoons and three distinct meteor showers will light up the UAE’s night sky—all enjoyable without any special equipment. Whether planning a romantic evening, a family trip, or serious astrophotography, it’s worth marking these dates in the calendar.

Nature's free presentation awaits everyone—you just need to look up.

(Source of the article: Dubai Astronomy Group announcement.)