Riyadh’s Celestial Spectacle: Exploring the Marvels of Hisma Desert
As the glow of nearby towns fades into the distance, visitors are entranced by the grandeur of the cosmos unfolding over the Hisma desert, located 90 km west of Tabuk.
A Natural Wonderland Carved by Time
Beneath the twinkling stars that adorn the sky in all directions, Hisma desert showcases unique rock formations known as masabih and gharamil, sculpted over millions of years through erosion processes, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Astro-Tourism: A Growing Trend in the Region
Abdulaziz bin Laboun, a geological expert and professor, describes the geological wonderland of Hisma as over 500 million years old, offering a landscape of rare beauty that is unparalleled in the world. The desert’s lack of artificial light pollution makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, observing stars, galaxies, meteors, and comets.
Majed Abu Zahra, president of the Jeddah Astronomical Society, notes that Hisma’s celestial display attracts enthusiasts of astro-tourism, a unique addition to the region’s tourism offerings alongside recreational, medical, and cultural tourism.
The Milky Way: Hisma’s Crown Jewel
The Milky Way galaxy, with our solar system nestled within one of its spiral arms, lies approximately 8,000 light years from the galactic center. With over 100 billion stars, it stretches across the night sky like a luminous ribbon, providing a mesmerizing view of the galaxy’s core.
An Amphitheater for Astronomical Wonders
Hisma desert serves as a natural venue for astronomical events and scientific discoveries, hosting activities like World Space Weeks and Astronomy Day. The pristine skies offer an ideal backdrop for observing solar and lunar eclipses, meteor showers, and planetary alignments.