Astronomical Center Predicts Possible Dates for Eid ul-Fitr
Islamabad: As the last ten days of Ramadan approach, discussions about the expected date of Eid al-Fitr have intensified worldwide. The International Astronomical Center has issued a new prediction regarding the sighting of the Shawwal moon, drawing widespread public attention.
According to astronomers, the date of Eid may vary across countries this year due to differences in the start of Ramadan. The center’s latest report states that in countries where the first fast was observed on Wednesday, February 18, the Shawwal moon is expected to be sought on Wednesday, March 18. However, experts say the moon will not be visible on that day according to scientific calculations.
Astronomers explained that the moon will set before the sun on that date, while the conjunction of the moon and sun will occur after sunset, making moon sighting scientifically impossible. As a result, these countries are likely to complete 30 days of Ramadan, with Eid expected to fall on Friday, March 20.
Meanwhile, in countries where the first fast was observed on Thursday, February 19, the Shawwal moon will be searched for on Thursday, March 19. According to the astronomical center, moon sighting that day will be extremely difficult in many parts of the world, particularly in eastern and central regions of the Muslim world.
Experts noted that factors such as the moon’s age, altitude above the horizon, and angular distance from the sun determine whether it can be seen. Based on these calculations, Eid al-Fitr in those regions is expected to be celebrated on Saturday, March 21.
