The new moon of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak 1447 AH will be born on February 17, 2026 at 5:01 p.m. (Pakistan Standard Time), according to a SUPARCO spokesperson. PHOTO: PIXABAY
The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Wednesday predicted that Eidul Fitr is likely to fall on March 21 as the chances of sighting the Shawwal Crescent on March 19 are considered very low.
“At the time of sunset on March 19, the age of the new moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes, with an estimated interval of 28 minutes between sunset and moonset along the coastal belt of Pakistan,” the SUPARCO statement said.
He added that based on these astronomical parameters, 1st Shawwal 1447 AH is expected to fall on March 21, marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan.
The commission said the prediction was based on scientific calculations and observations, but stressed that the relevant religious authority would make the official announcement.
“The final decision regarding the observation of the Shawwal Crescent and the commencement of Eid-ul-Fitr 1447 AH will be taken by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan, which is the sole competent authority to announce the commencement of the Islamic months based on credible testimonies and verified observations from across the country,” the statement said.
The visibility of the crescent depends on atmospheric conditions, and clear skies would increase the chances of sighting the moon in most parts of Pakistan.
Pakistan follows both scientific and traditional methods of observing the moon, and the government has often relied on SUPARCO’s lunar calculations to help the Ruet-e-Hilal committee make decisions.
