Ramadan 2026: Astronomers Divided Over First Day as Crescent Visibility Questioned
Split Between Wednesday and Thursday Predictions
A difference is likely in the announcement of the beginning of Ramadan this year, as experts remain divided over the visibility of the crescent moon on Tuesday evening, the 29th of Sha‘ban.
Astronomical observations indicate that the crescent will appear for a very brief duration after sunset, remaining visible for only one to two minutes in central regions and up to three minutes in western areas. Due to this extremely short visibility window, many experts believe sighting the moon with the naked eye will be difficult.
Several astronomical bodies and experts have expressed differing views on the likely start date. Afaaq Astronomical Society, Dr. Khalid Al-Za’aq and the Al-Ajiri Calendar have indicated that Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 18.
On the other hand, the International Astronomical Center, astronomer Badr Al-Omirah and the Jordan Astronomical Society have suggested that the crescent cannot be sighted on Tuesday, pointing towards Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan. Expert Moath Al-Ahmadi, climate professor Afnan Al-Mulhim and Dr. Abdullah Al-Jazea have also indicated that the crescent is unlikely to be visible, strengthening the possibility that Sha‘ban will complete 30 days and Ramadan will commence on Thursday.
The differing assessments have created a clear split between observers predicting Wednesday and those forecasting Thursday as the beginning of the holy month.
Final confirmation, however, will depend on official moon sighting announcements by respective religious authorities. [KNT]
