The date for sighting the crescent moon of Shawwal in Saudi Arabia via 12 astronomical observatories
Muslims in Saudi Arabia and across the Islamic world are eagerly awaiting the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal , as authorities prepare to observe it, signaling the end of Ramadan and determining the first day of Eid al-Fitr. Twelve astronomical observatories, strategically located throughout the Kingdom, are ready to undertake this precise religious and scientific task, in close and continuous coordination with the Supreme Court. This initiative comes amidst great anticipation for the results of the field observations, which combine traditional naked-eye observation with the use of cutting-edge astronomical technology to ensure the highest degree of accuracy.
Path and dates for sighting the crescent moon of Shawwal in the regions of the Kingdom
The precise astronomical observation process begins at the Dammam Observatory in the Eastern Province, which records the first moments of sunset at 5:50 PM. Following this, field observation efforts continue at the other observatories, which are electronically and organizationally linked to the Supreme Court. This organizational step aims to ensure the accuracy and speed of data transmission and to unify the legal and astronomical decision across the Kingdom. Sunset times are distributed sequentially, including the Al-Uyaynah and Al-Hariq observatories at 6:05 PM, followed by the Tumair observatory at 6:07 PM, and then Hawtat Sudair, one minute later. The observations continue at the Shaqra observatory at 6:10 PM, then move to Buraydah and Hail at 6:15 PM and 6:24 PM, respectively. The daily observation cycle concludes in the holiest of places, where attention turns to the observatories of Mecca and Medina, where the sun sets simultaneously at 6:32 PM.
The historical and legal significance of sighting the new moon
The observation and sighting of the new moon is one of the oldest practices associated with Islamic history. Since the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Muslims have relied on visual sighting to determine the beginnings and ends of the lunar months. Historically, this task was entrusted to trustworthy individuals with keen eyesight. With the passage of time and the advancement of science, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has become a pioneer in integrating the traditional sighting of the new moon with precise astronomical calculations. This historical development reflects the Kingdom's commitment to the utmost accuracy in performing religious rites. Advanced observatories equipped with state-of-the-art telescopes and thermal imaging cameras have been established, enabling observers to confirm and scientifically document their sightings with conclusive evidence, thus minimizing errors and ensuring consistency in the determination of the new moon.
The domestic and international impact of the Supreme Court's declaration
The significance of announcing the sighting of the new moon is not limited to the local level within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; its impact extends to regional and international dimensions. Locally, this announcement leads to the organization of official and public events, the determination of official holidays for both the public and private sectors, and the commencement of preparations by citizens and residents for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Regionally and internationally, millions of Muslims worldwide, and many Islamic countries and centers in Western nations, follow the announcement of the Saudi Supreme Court due to the Kingdom's status as the Qibla for Muslims and the presence of the Two Holy Mosques. This close connection makes the Supreme Court's decision a global event upon which the unification of Muslim celebrations is based, and it strengthens religious and social bonds among the peoples of the Islamic world across the globe.
