The Worldwide Astronomy Centre confirmed on Wednesday that the crescent moon of Shawwal might be inconceivable to sight on Saturday, March 29, throughout all areas of the Arab and Islamic world. That is as a result of moon setting earlier than the solar, with the conjunction occurring after sundown.
Consequently, observing the crescent moon, whether or not by the bare eye, telescopes, or different means, might be unfeasible on March 29.
For international locations requiring an precise sighting to mark the beginning of Shawwal, Ramadan will possible lengthen to 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr falling on Monday, March 31.
Nevertheless, in some areas the place the conjunction happens earlier than sundown, permitting the moon to set after sundown, some international locations could select to declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, following conventional moon-sighting practices.
Notably, a partial photo voltaic eclipse might be seen at midday on Saturday in elements of the western Arab world, together with Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This occasion serves as definitive proof that the crescent moon can’t be seen at the moment.
Given the scientific proof, authorities have warned towards false claims of sighting the crescent on that day, stressing that such stories would contradict established astronomical information.
Earlier, the Pakistan House & Higher Ambiance Analysis Fee (Suparco) had forecasted that the Shawwal moon might be seen on March 30, suggesting that Eid ul-Fitr will possible fall on March 31, 2025.
Consequently, a lot of the Islamic world is anticipated to look at Eid on the identical day, March 31.