Saudi Arabia Prepares for Shawwal Moon Sighting to Mark Eidul Fitr

As Saudi Arabia readies for the Shawwal moon sighting, ten observatories will monitor the crescent for Eidul Fitr. The moon might be visible only briefly, making swift confirmation vital. A partial solar eclipse is also scheduled for March 29, but moon sighting that evening is impossible. Experts predict Ramadan will last 30 days, with Eid on March 31 in many areas.

Saudi Arabia is making final preparations for the Shawwal moon sighting, with ten astronomical observatories set to monitor the crescent to determine when Eidul Fitr begins. Experts indicate that the crescent may only be visible for 7 to 8 minutes, rendering quick confirmation crucial. At the Tumair observatory, sunset is anticipated at 6:11 PM, with the crescent setting shortly after, eight minutes later. Favorable conditions are predicted with clear skies and temperatures around 32°C, aiding the confirmation of Ramadan’s conclusion and Eid’s onset.

In addition to the crescent sighting, the International Astronomy Center has announced a partial solar eclipse on March 29, which will obscure up to 94% of the sun and be observable in parts of the western Arab world at 10:47 GMT (2:47 PM local time). However, they have confirmed that witnessing the Shawwal crescent on that same day will be impossible across the Arab and Islamic regions, due to the moon setting before sunset and the conjunction occurring after sunset.

In a statement to Gulf News, Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, an Emirati astronomer and Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, clarified that calculations show the Shawwal crescent will not be visible after sunset on March 29, 2025, which corresponds to 29 Ramadan 1446 AH. Thus, the Emirates Astronomy Society anticipates Ramadan will last a full 30 days, predicting that the last day of fasting will be on March 30, with Eidul Fitr expected to be celebrated on Monday, March 31.

For countries that depend on actual moon sightings to confirm Shawwal’s arrival, Ramadan is likely to complete its full 30 days, leading to a Muslim Eidul Fitr on March 31. However, in some regions where the conjunction happens before sunset, it is possible that certain nations may declare Eid on March 30, adhering to traditional moon-sighting practices.

Saudi Arabia’s preparations for the Shawwal moon sighting highlight the significance of astronomical observations in determining the start of Eidul Fitr. The crescent’s visibility, weather conditions, and the timing of the solar eclipse are critical factors influencing this traditional observance. According to expert calculations, Eidul Fitr is projected to occur on either March 30 or March 31, based on local moon-sighting practices.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk