Milky Way Illuminates Rafha desert skies in spectacular celestial display

RAFHA — The Milky Way's arm illuminated the skies over Umm Al-Asafir, south of Rafha, in a captivating astronomical display on Saturday night. The Milky Way was observed shining brightly over the Umm Al-Asafir area, located about 60 kilometers south of Rafha, revealing the galaxy's distinct arm stretching across the night sky. **media[2735855]** Exceptionally clear weather and low levels of light pollution created ideal conditions for astronomical observation and night photography. Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Burgis Al-Fulaih, a member of the Afaq Astronomy Society, said the scene showcased the dense expanse of the Milky Way's arm across the center of the sky, with thousands of stars and stellar clouds standing out vividly. Al-Fulaih noted that the beginning and end of each lunar month during July, August, September, and October are among the best times to observe the Milky Way. **media[2735857]** During these periods, the absence of moonlight—or its reduced brightness—increases the galaxy's contrast, making its features more visible and creating ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts and astrophotographers. He added that the desert's low light pollution, open horizons, and clear skies make it one of the best environments for observing astronomical phenomena with the naked eye or through telescopes.