How is the Ramadan Crescent Determined? The Science Behind Moon Sighting

Moon sighting for Islamic months, especially Ramadan, is based on a combination of astronomical calculations, atmospheric conditions, and physical observations. Various factors help predict whether the crescent will be visible, and different parameters are used to assess the sighting.

Factors That Suggest Crescent Visibility

Several scientific and natural factors indicate the likelihood of crescent visibility:

1. Moon’s Age – The time elapsed since the New Moon (birth of the moon) is crucial. The moon must be at least 18-24 hours old to be visible with the naked eye.

2. Altitude of the Moon – The moon must be at a certain height above the horizon at sunset. If it’s too low, it will set quickly and may not be visible.

3. Elongation (Angular Separation from the Sun) – The crescent must be at least 7-10 degrees away from the sun to be seen. If it’s too close, the sunlight will outshine it.

4. Illumination Percentage – The percentage of the moon’s surface that reflects sunlight should be at least 1% for a visible crescent.

5. Weather Conditions – Clear skies enhance visibility, while clouds, humidity, and air pollution can obscure the sighting.

6. Location and Observer’s Altitude – Higher altitudes and locations with less light pollution increase the chances of seeing the crescent.

Parameters to Assess Islamic Month’s Moon Sighting

Islamic scholars and astronomers use several parameters to evaluate moon sighting:

1. Hilal (Crescent) Visibility Charts – These charts predict where the moon will be visible, based on scientific data.

2. Moonset Time vs. Sunset Time – The moon should set at least 20-40 minutes after the sun for visibility.

3. Lunar Calendar Calculations – Some countries rely on pre-calculated Islamic calendars, while others depend solely on actual sightings.

4. Scientific & Religious Verification – Some Islamic authorities use telescopes and astronomical predictions alongside naked-eye verification, ensuring both methods align.

Read: Banks in Pakistan to Remain Closed on First Day of Ramadan

Preparations for Moon Sighting

To ensure an accurate and organized process, several steps are taken:

1. Formation of Moon Sighting Committees – Many Muslim countries, including Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court, and UAE’s Astronomical Societies,** are responsible for official decisions.

2. Deployment of Observers – Teams of scholars, scientists, and observers gather at designated locations with clear horizons to look for the crescent.

3. Use of Telescopes and Cameras – Advanced optical equipment helps detect the moon, even when visibility is low.

4. Public Announcements & Reports – Witnesses provide testimonies, which are verified before an official announcement is made via TV, social media, and government channels.

How is the Final Decision Made?

The decision to declare the start of an Islamic month depends on:

1. Verified Testimonies – Eyewitnesses must provide credible reports to the moon sighting committees.
2. Scientific Evidence – If astronomical calculations confirm the sighting possibility, it strengthens the testimonies.
3. Consensus of Religious Authorities – A collective decision is made based on Shariah guidelines and scientific data.

Conclusion

Moon sighting is a crucial process in determining Islamic months like Ramadan and Eid. It involves scientific calculations, physical observation, and religious verification. While some countries rely purely on astronomical data, others emphasize traditional naked-eye sightings to uphold Islamic traditions.

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