As Muslims around the globe prepare for the sacred month of Ramadan, anticipation builds for the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the start of this significant period. According to reports from Gulf News, the crescent moon for Ramadan is likely to be sighted on Sunday, March 10, in most Islamic countries.
Citing the International Astronomical Center, Gulf News indicates that the central conjunction is scheduled for March 10 at 9:00 am GMT, with the moon expected to set after sunset across nearly all regions of the Islamic world. This aligns with the projection that most Muslim countries will begin Ramadan on Monday, March 11.
However, there is a chance that the crescent will not be visible in some areas on March 10, based on established visibility criteria outlined in scientific research. Scholars and astronomical observatories, including SAAO, along with researchers Yallop and Odeh, suggest that the crescent will likely not be visible with the naked eye or even through a telescope across the Arab and Islamic world on March 10.
Interestingly, the use of a telescope may aid in making the crescent visible in parts of the Americas, especially in western regions. For countries that mandate the physical sighting of the crescent, it is anticipated that Ramadan will begin on Tuesday, March 12.
As the Islamic community eagerly awaits the official sighting, preparations for the blessed month of fasting, prayer, and reflection are well underway across the globe. Stay tuned for updates on the confirmed sighting and the official commencement of Ramadan.
