The sighting of the Suhail star is commemorated in various regions of Saudi Arabia, as it indicates the conclusion of the intense summer heat and the onset of milder weather, signifying an important seasonal transition for numerous individuals in the nation.
Berjis Al-Fulaih, a member of the Afaq Society for Astronomy, explained that this star, known internationally as Canopus, becomes visible in the Kingdom’s skies and heralds milder temperatures ahead. Speaking to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), he noted that for Arabs, it’s a key event announcing the start of the rainy season and the rejuvenation of the land. Suhail is actually the Arabic name for Canopus, which ranks as the second-brightest star in the night sky after Sirius. Astronomers point out that Canopus is far more luminous than Sirius, but it appears dimmer because it’s about 310 light-years away from Earth, compared to Sirius’s mere 8.6 light-years.
Al-Fulaih added that the star can be spotted with the naked eye in the southern Arabian Peninsula starting August 24 each year, while it becomes clearly visible in the northern parts of the Kingdom by September 8. Historically, the Suhail star has been a vital guide for farmers across the Arab world, helping them time their agricultural preparations. Sailors and travelers have long used it for navigation, and it’s woven into rich traditions of poetry and folklore. The Suhail season itself lasts 52 days, bringing gentle breezes and seasonal clouds, as per an earlier SPA report. During this time, nights turn pleasantly cool, though days stay hot initially before easing into more comfortable temperatures.
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