Pakistan should observe Eidul Fitr on March 31, 2025, according to a forecast of scientific moon aims published by Suparco.
In a press release, the Space & Upper atmosphere research commission (Suparco) provided an astronomical analysis of the visibility of the Shawwal Crescent, indicating that the Moon will probably be seen on March 30 across the country.
According to Suparco, the new moon of Shawwal 1446 Hijri will be formed on March 29 at 3:58 p.m. (standard time in Pakistan). However, its visibility the same evening is unlikely because of its young age and positioning.
As of March 30 (29th Ramadan in Pakistan), the age of the croissant will be around 27 hours, which makes it easily visible to the naked eye after sunset. Additional astronomical factors, such as the altitude of 14 degrees from the moon to sunset and 2% lighting, support the probability of observation more.
The visibility of the crescent depends on atmospheric conditions, and a clear sky would improve the chances of seeing the moon in most regions of Pakistan.
The declaration also pointed out that in Saudi Arabia, the chances of observation of the Moon on March 29 remain minimal due to the youngest age of the moon and the decline in altitude at sunset. This means that the moon will probably be visible on March 30 in Saudi Arabia also, which suggests that Pakistan and a large part of the Middle East could celebrate Eid on the same day – March 31.
Despite Suparco’s scientific forecasts, the final decision on Eid Ul-Fitr will be taken by the Central Rue-E-Hilal Committee in Pakistan. The committee will meet on March 30 to assess the observation reports of the moon from across the country, considering both scientific data and testimonies of eyewitnesses before making an official announcement.
“While scientific models strongly indicate a clear observation on March 30, the final decision remains dependent on the observations of the soil and the official verdict of the Rue-E-Hilal Committee,” said a spokesperson for Suparco.
Pakistan follows the methods of observation of the scientific and traditional moon, and the government has often relied on the lunar calculations of Suparco to help the decision of the Rue-E-Hilal committee.
If the croissant is seen as expected, Ramadan will end with 29 fasts, and Eid UL-FITR will be celebrated on Monday March 31, 2025.
