In moments of profound grief that enveloped the Saudi media community, the body of the late journalist Abdullah Al-Qubai' arrived in the Kingdom this morning from London, following his sudden death on February 15th. Media professionals, intellectuals, and admirers of the deceased are preparing to accompany his body to its final resting place in Al-Faisaliyah Cemetery in Jeddah after the noon prayer on Thursday, in a scene that encapsulates a rich professional and personal legacy.

As the body arrived, renowned novelist Abdo Khal, a close friend of the deceased, revealed poignant details surrounding Al-Qubai's final days, shedding light on a hidden aspect of his health struggles. A recent private conversation between them revealed that Al-Qubai had suffered a severe pulmonary embolism, which caused him to fall into a coma that lasted several days. Although he showed temporary signs of recovery, fate intervened, and he departed this world, leaving behind a fragrant legacy and a positive impact.

In a detail that reflects his noble character and selflessness, Abdo Khal noted that Al-Qubai’ deliberately concealed his illness and deteriorating health from everyone, including his children and siblings, informing only a very small circle of acquaintances. This behavior stemmed from his deep desire to avoid causing worry or sadness to his loved ones, which explains the shock with which the media received the news of his death, as the majority were unaware of the critical stage he was going through.

The death of Al-Qubai' holds particular significance in the local media landscape, not only because he was a journalist who worked quietly and diligently for years, but also because his passing serves as a reminder of the values ​​of loyalty and camaraderie that bind members of the same profession. His relationship with the novelist Abdo Khal exemplifies a deep friendship that transcends professional boundaries, reaching into strong human connections, as their communication remained constant until their final moments.

A large gathering of the deceased's colleagues and friends is expected at Al-Faisaliyah Cemetery in Jeddah on Thursday afternoon, as they come to offer their condolences, recalling his virtues and his calm demeanor that always instilled a sense of peace in those around him. Abdullah Al-Qubai's passing while abroad and his return carried on the shoulders of love represent a sad chapter, but one that immortalizes the memory of a humane journalist who chose to suffer in silence so that those around him could remain at peace.

As the sun sets on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the eyes of astronomy enthusiasts and observers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will turn towards the southwestern horizon, where the crescent moon of the holy month of Ramadan will adorn the sky in a magnificent astronomical scene, announcing the beginning of the Ramadan nights, and providing an ideal opportunity for astronomical photography and documentation when the atmosphere is clear.

Details of the conjunction and the beginning of the lunar month

In detailing this astronomical event, Engineer Majid Abu Zahra, President of the Jeddah Astronomical Society, explained that the moon reached its conjunction phase yesterday, Tuesday, February 17, at 3:01 PM Mecca time. This conjunction is the primary astronomical sign marking the end of one lunar month and the beginning of a new one, as the moon moves from west to east of the sun, beginning its usual monthly journey around the Earth.

Abu Zahra explained that the crescent moon observed today will begin to move away angularly from the sun, and will gradually rise in the sky over the coming days, leading to an increase in the area of ​​its illuminated part night after night, in an accurate embodiment of the precise cosmic system and the movement of celestial bodies.

Earthlight phenomenon and crescent moon brilliance

Among the aesthetic aspects of observing tonight's crescent moon is the potential appearance of what is known as "earthlight" or gray glow. This phenomenon occurs when sunlight reflected off the Earth's surface is refracted towards the moon, illuminating its dark portion with a faint and enchanting glow. This spectacle creates an exceptional beauty that can be observed with the naked eye, especially in areas far from urban light pollution, making it a prime target for astrophotographers.

The importance of astronomical observation and its connection to the Islamic calendar

The observation of the new moon in the Kingdom and the Islamic world holds immense importance that transcends the purely astronomical and scientific dimensions, touching upon religious and cultural aspects, as the Islamic calendar is entirely based on the moon's orbit around the Earth. The process of observation and verification is a long-standing tradition that combines religious heritage with precise astronomical calculations, thus strengthening the integration between Islamic jurisprudence and astronomy.

Observers are advised to choose locations with an open horizon free of obstructions such as buildings and mountains, and to stay away from bright city lights to ensure a clearer view of the thin crescent and the faint celestial objects that may appear close to its path during these first nights of the holy month.

In conclusion, the moon continues its apparent eastward movement among the stars day after day, serving as a visual guide and a natural celestial timer through which people follow the passing of the days of the holy month, in an experience that combines visual enjoyment with contemplation of God’s creation.