The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD) has officially confirmed the sighting of the Suhail star, also known as Canopus, at dawn on August 22 and 23, 2026. This celestial event is traditionally recognized as a precursor to the gradual cooling of the UAE’s summer temperatures. The observation was conducted to support the department’s ongoing work in tracking astronomical phenomena relevant to the Islamic calendar and prayer timing.
Led by Dr. Hamad Mohammed Saleh, head of the Prayer Times and Crescent Sighting Section, the observation team utilized specialized binoculars and astronomical photography to document the star. The group included members of the Dubai Crescent Sighting Committee, specifically Dr. Mohammed Ahmed Al Kamali, Tariq Yahya Al Kamali, and Tamim Al Tamimi, who is also the Director of the Emirates Astronomical Society. Dr. Saleh noted that the monitoring process spanned two days to ensure the appearance was accurately recorded.
The team successfully captured images of the star from the Jebel Hafeet Desert Park Reserve, beginning at 5:21 AM on Saturday, August 22, and continuing until 5:51 AM. During this observation window, the star remained invisible to the naked eye, requiring technical equipment to confirm its presence.
Source: Gulf Today
