Details regarding the weather forecast for sighting the Eid crescent and the date of the first day of Shawwal
As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims eagerly await the arrival of Eid al-Fitr, anticipating the arrival of the new moon. In this context, the importance of monitoring the weather conditions surrounding the sighting of the new moon and the astronomical circumstances becomes paramount. Renowned astronomer Abdullah al-Khudairi provided detailed information on the astronomical data for Wednesday evening, the 29th of Ramadan, confirming that current conditions preclude any possibility of sighting the crescent moon of Shawwal. This is scientifically explained by the fact that the moon will set approximately 30 minutes before sunset, making observation completely impossible with the naked eye or even with advanced optical instruments.
Details of the weather forecast for sighting the Eid crescent and the dates of the astronomical conjunction
In a related context, Al-Khudairi explained that the central conjunction will occur, God willing, at dawn on Thursday, specifically at 4:26 AM. Astronomically speaking, this timing means that the crescent moon will be impossible to see on Wednesday evening. As for Thursday evening, which corresponds to the 30th of Ramadan according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, the crescent will remain visible on the horizon for approximately 30 minutes after sunset. This duration is considered sufficient and may allow for actual observation, provided the atmosphere is clear and free of dust. If the sighting is postponed until Friday evening, the crescent will be more visible and higher in the sky, as the moon will then be more than 48 hours old since the conjunction, making it clearly visible to everyone.
Ideal climatic conditions at sighting sites
Regarding the weather conditions at the approved observation sites, the observer noted that the atmosphere was characterized by light cloud cover that did not significantly impede visibility, with calm and inactive winds reaching speeds of approximately 21 kilometers per hour. The humidity level was also low and ideal, estimated at around 14%. Despite these favorable weather conditions, Al-Khudairi emphasized that the most important and fundamental factor in visibility remains the duration the moon remains above the horizon after sunset.
The historical and legal context of sighting the new moon in the Kingdom
The sighting of the crescent moon is a confirmed Sunnah (Prophetic tradition) closely linked to Islamic history. For centuries, the Muslim community has relied on visual observation to determine the beginnings and ends of the lunar months. With scientific advancements, efforts have been combined with the traditional method of naked-eye observation and the use of the latest astronomical technologies to ensure accuracy. In this regard, Al-Khudairi emphasized that the role of observers and astronomical observatories throughout the Kingdom is limited to scientific and field observation and the transmission of documented testimonies. The final and decisive decision regarding the start of Shawwal and the announcement of the first day of Eid al-Fitr, or the completion of Ramadan as a 30-day month, rests exclusively with the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, based on the official and reliable testimonies of the crescent moon sighting.
The great importance and regional and international impact of the holiday declaration
The announcement of the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal has far-reaching implications, extending beyond the Kingdom's borders to encompass a wide regional and international impact. Saudi Arabia, with its religious significance as the Qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims, serves as a primary reference point for many Islamic countries and Muslim minorities worldwide in determining religious occasions. The anticipation of this event represents a moment of unity and shared faith, uniting millions of Muslims who eagerly await the announcement of Eid to begin celebrations and exchange greetings. This anticipation reflects the profound spiritual and social significance of Eid al-Fitr, which culminates a month of fasting and prayer, strengthening social bonds and spreading joy throughout the Muslim world.
