Abu Dhabi: The International Astronomical Center has officially released the first image of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1445 AH.
Captured by the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory (AKO) in Abu Dhabi, the photograph was taken at 10:00 am UAE time on Monday, March 11, 2024. The image showcases the moon's significant separation from the sun, positioned at 13.0 degrees.
On Sunday, the UAE, along with regional neighbors Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan crescent.
In contrast, several other countries, including Oman, Jordan, Morocco, Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, reported that they were unable to spot the crescent. As a result, these countries have announced that they will begin the Ramadan on Tuesday, aligning their calendar with the lunar cycle's progression.
Dr. Abdullah Al Misnad, vice president of the Saudi Weather and Climate Association, provided insights into the celestial dynamics. He noted that the moon was in conjunction with the sun at midday on Sunday, at precisely 12:03 pm, and remained visible on the western horizon for approximately 13 minutes by the Mecca horizon that evening.
His updates on "X" suggested that, barring any obstructions like clouds or dust, the first day of Ramadan would be Monday, with the full moon appearing on March 25, at 10:02 am, corresponding to the 15th of Ramadan.
Al Misnad predicted that this year's Ramadan is expected to last for 30 days, with the festival of Eid Al Fitr anticipated to fall on Wednesday, April 10, based on astronomical calculations.
