Dwarf Planet Haumea to Eclipse Star Over UAE

May 2, 2026

56 min

May 2, 2026 18:30

Rare space event: Dwarf planet Haumea to briefly eclipse star over UAE skies

## Rare Astronomical Event

On Monday evening, a rare celestial event will occur as the dwarf planet Haumea passes in front of a distant star, causing a brief eclipse. This phenomenon, known as a stellar occultation, will be visible across most of the Arab world.

## Duration and Visibility

The event is expected to last up to 119 seconds and is part of a global observation effort by various observatories and research institutions. It will begin in the eastern parts of the region, starting in Oman and the UAE at 20:16 GMT, followed by Jordan, Egypt, and Morocco.

## Haumea's Unique Characteristics

Haumea is one of five recognized dwarf planets in our solar system, located in the Kuiper Belt beyond Neptune. It is notable for having two moons and a ring system. During the occultation, Haumea will obscure a faint star, resulting in a noticeable drop in brightness.

## Observing the Event

The occultation will be observable from most Arab countries, except Somalia, Djibouti, and the Comoros. This event provides a unique opportunity for astronomers and enthusiasts to witness a rare alignment in the night sky.

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