ARAR — Skies over Saudi Arabia’s Northern Border region were illuminated on Tuesday evening by a rare astronomical event, as the Moon appeared in conjunction with the Pleiades star cluster in a phenomenon locally known as “Qiran Al-Tasi‘.” **media[2654407]** The event marks the third conjunction of the Moon with the Pleiades during the winter season and coincides with the beginning of Al-Tasi‘, one of the coldest periods of the year traditionally associated with severe drops in temperature and widespread frost.Mohammed Anad Al-Hazimi, a member of the Astronomy and Space Club, said the conjunction signals the onset of Al-Tasi‘, a seasonal phase known for intense cold conditions that can persist for several days.“This period is considered among the harshest phases of winter,” Al-Hazimi said, noting that its effects are often felt during late-night and early-morning hours.He added that the phenomenon will coincide on Thursday with the appearance of the star Al-Baldah, an alignment that historically signals the beginning of what is known as “the second Sha‘ban,” an astronomical phase linked to further declines in temperature and an increased likelihood of frost.According to Al-Hazimi, these conditions also align with the season referred to as “Bard Al-Tawilayn,” which typically lasts around 10 days and is characterized by prolonged and biting cold.He urged livestock owners and farmers to exercise caution during this period and advised the public to closely monitor official weather forecasts due to the heightened risk of frost and cold-related impacts.
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