Northern borders: The Moon appeared in conjunction with the Beehive Cluster over Northern Borders Region at dawn Tuesday, creating a striking astronomical scene over Wadi Arar in northern Saudi Arabia.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Astronomy and Space Club member Adnan Khalifa said the Al-Nathrah Cluster, astronomically known as M44, is an open star cluster in the constellation Cancer. It is also known as the Beehive Cluster because its stars resemble a swarm of bees.

Khalifa explained that the conjunction is an apparent close approach as viewed from Earth. Although the Moon and the cluster are separated by vast distances, they appear in nearly the same direction in the sky.

He said such conjunctions offer skywatchers and astrophotographers opportunities to document celestial objects, noting that the open desert areas of Northern Borders Region provide favorable viewing conditions away from light pollution.