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Saudi Arabia Observes Crescent Moon Amid Cloudy Conditions for Ramadan Start
Authorities urge moon sightings as anticipation builds for the start of Ramadan.
Saudi Arabia is currently engaged in the observation of the crescent moon on Friday evening, a critical step to determine the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan.
Conditions for sighting the moon are complicated by dense cloud cover that has enveloped the Tamir Observatory, a primary location for such moon-sighting activities.
Local observers have reported that the atmospheric conditions may allow for the visibility of the crescent despite the intermittent cloud cover expected to intermittently clear in the immediate future.
This report aligns with statements from weather experts, who noted variability in weather conditions across the country, particularly regarding cloud movements that can influence visibility.
The Saudi Supreme Court previously issued a call to the public to actively search for the Ramadan crescent on Friday, February 28, which corresponds to the 29th of Sha'ban on the Islamic calendar.
In accordance with these guidelines, individuals who observe the moon, whether by naked eye or using telescopes, are encouraged to report their findings to the nearest court or observation center.
In addition, the International Astronomy Center, based in the United Arab Emirates, has indicated that the crescent moon is anticipated to be visible through telescopes in certain areas of West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe.
In parts of the Americas, visibility may be possible with the naked eye.
The center also pointed out that the crescent will likely be visible in various Islamic nations on Friday and, given that the conjunction will occur prior to sunset—with the moon setting after the sun across all Islamic countries—most countries are expected to declare Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.
Conditions for sighting the moon are complicated by dense cloud cover that has enveloped the Tamir Observatory, a primary location for such moon-sighting activities.
Local observers have reported that the atmospheric conditions may allow for the visibility of the crescent despite the intermittent cloud cover expected to intermittently clear in the immediate future.
This report aligns with statements from weather experts, who noted variability in weather conditions across the country, particularly regarding cloud movements that can influence visibility.
The Saudi Supreme Court previously issued a call to the public to actively search for the Ramadan crescent on Friday, February 28, which corresponds to the 29th of Sha'ban on the Islamic calendar.
In accordance with these guidelines, individuals who observe the moon, whether by naked eye or using telescopes, are encouraged to report their findings to the nearest court or observation center.
In addition, the International Astronomy Center, based in the United Arab Emirates, has indicated that the crescent moon is anticipated to be visible through telescopes in certain areas of West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe.
In parts of the Americas, visibility may be possible with the naked eye.
The center also pointed out that the crescent will likely be visible in various Islamic nations on Friday and, given that the conjunction will occur prior to sunset—with the moon setting after the sun across all Islamic countries—most countries are expected to declare Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.
