The International Astronomy Centre confirmed that the crescent moon of Shawwal will not be visible on March 29, leading to Eid Al Fitr likely being observed on March 31 throughout most of the Islamic world. Some regions may choose to declare Eid on March 30. A partial solar eclipse will also occur on March 29, reinforcing the impossibility of sighting the crescent. Authorities warn against false claims regarding moon sightings.
The International Astronomy Centre reported that it will be impossible to sight the crescent moon of Shawwal on Saturday, March 29, across the Arab and Islamic world. This is due to the moon setting before the sun, with the conjunction occurring post-sunset. Hence, for countries needing a physical sighting of the moon to begin Shawwal, Ramadan may last a full 30 days, leading Eid Al Fitr to be observed on Monday, March 31.
In contrast, in certain regions where the moon conjunction occurs before sunset, it is possible for some countries to declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, following established moon-sighting traditions. Additionally, a partial solar eclipse will be observable at noon on Saturday in parts of the western Arab world, including Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, further validating the inconspicuousness of the crescent moon.
Authorities have emphasized the significance of this scientific evidence, warning against any erroneous reports of a moon sighting on March 29, as such claims would contradict established astronomical understanding. The Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) had also predicted that the Shawwal moon would be visible on March 30, indicating Eid ul-Fitr is forecasted to take place on March 31, 2025, aligning with the anticipated observations in much of the Islamic world.
In summary, astronomical predictions indicate that the crescent moon of Shawwal will not be visible on March 29, leading most of the Arab countries and Pakistan to observe Eid Al Fitr on March 31. While some regions may follow different traditions and declare Eid on March 30, scientific evidence supports the likelihood of a single day of celebration across the Islamic world. It is advisable to adhere to established astronomical practices to avoid misinformation regarding moon sightings.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
