The crescent moon of Shawwal will not be visible on March 29, making it likely for most Arab and Islamic countries to celebrate Eid Al Fitr on March 31. However, a few regions may choose to observe it on March 30. A partial solar eclipse on the same date further confirms the moon’s invisibility.
The International Astronomy Centre announced that the crescent moon of Shawwal will not be visible on Saturday, March 29, throughout the Arab and Islamic regions, as it will set before the sun. Consequently, this makes it impossible to observe the crescent by any methods on that day.
For nations reliant on actual moon sightings to commence Shawwal, it is likely that Ramadan will extend to a full 30 days, resulting in Eid Al Fitr being celebrated on Monday, March 31. However, certain areas where the conjunction occurs before sunset might declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, adhering to traditional moon-sighting customs.
Additionally, a partial solar eclipse is expected at noon on March 29 in parts of the western Arab world, including countries such as Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, as further evidence that the crescent moon will not be visible.
Authorities have cautioned against any unfounded claims regarding moon sighting on March 29, emphasizing that such statements contradict established astronomical principles. Earlier predictions from the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) indicated that the Shawwal moon would likely be visible on March 30, leading to the conclusion that Eid ul-Fitr will probably take place on March 31, 2025. Thus, it is anticipated that most of the Islamic world will celebrate Eid on the same day, March 31.
In conclusion, the crescent moon of Shawwal cannot be sighted on March 29, leading most countries to expect Eid Al Fitr on March 31, following a complete month of Ramadan. Some regions may observe Eid on March 30 due to local moon sighting customs, but scientific evidence supports March 31 as the likely date for Eid celebrations across the Islamic world.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
