2,000 Gather in Doha for Perseid Meteor Shower Amid Rising Interest in Astronomy

2000 Gather in Doha for Perseid Meteor Shower Amid Rising Interest in Astronomy

Astronomy is gaining popularity in Qatar, as demonstrated by the attendance of over 2,000 people of all ages at a recent public event in Al Kharrara to witness the Perseid meteor shower, one of the most remarkable celestial events.

The event, organized by the Qatar Astronomy and Space Club in collaboration with Everester Observatory, attracted large crowds eager to experience the natural phenomenon. Ajith Everester, a Doha-based astrophotographer and founder of Everester Observatory, told *The Peninsula* that this year’s Perseid meteor shower was highly anticipated, with over 100 shooting stars observed during its peak.

Participants enjoyed a stunning view of the meteor shower, which remains visible in the country until September 1, and can be observed without the need for telescopes or binoculars.

For the third consecutive year, the Qatar Astronomy and Space Club and Everester Observatory have partnered to host such events, encouraging public engagement with the night sky. This year’s gathering was especially significant, with over 600 vehicles traveling to Al Kharrara. The remote location provided an ideal setting for stargazing from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Twenty students from Birla Public School and Delhi Public School volunteered at the event, including 9-year-old Aayush Advait, who managed the Counting Desk. The event officially began after 10:30 p.m. following the moon’s set, with spectators eagerly counting each meteor sighting, eventually tallying around 100 meteors.

Attendees were thrilled by the event. Lorena Collino, who attended with her daughters Mariam and Sara, described it as “a wonderful opportunity to make wishes under the night sky.” Hanan Asharaf called the night “fantastic and unforgettable,” while Daisy, a regular attendee of Qatar Astronomy and Space Club events, shared her mixed emotions about missing future stargazing events as she prepares to move to Canada. The Qatar Astronomy and Space Club, co-founded by Everester and Navin Anand, an amateur astronomer based in the country, continues to be a local initiative dedicated to bringing people together to witness celestial wonders and raising awareness about astronomy. Everester noted the growing interest in astronomy among residents, crediting the success of such events and media support for this surge in enthusiasm.

For those interested in exploring astronomy further, Everester encouraged contacting the club via WhatsApp at 55482045 or 30889582. The Perseid meteor shower, described by NASA as the best of the year, is known for its bright, swift meteors that often leave trails of light and color in the sky. Under ideal conditions, between 50 to 100 meteors can be seen per hour.