Eid ul-Fitr’s date is contingent on moon sightings, crucially affected by Ramadan’s split initiation in 2025. Saudi Arabia may celebrate Eid on Sunday, March 30, while UK astronomers suggest Eid could actually fall on Monday, March 31, due to moon visibility discrepancies. Local times for moon sightings are provided by the HM Nautical Almanac Office, highlighting different observances across regions.
Eid ul-Fitr is approaching as Ramadan 2025 nears its conclusion, with expectations for Shawwal to begin shortly. Astronomers from the UK have pinpointed the critical times for moon sighting announcements, pivotal for determining the day Eid will be celebrated, whether on Sunday or Monday.
Muslims globally are keenly awaiting the sighting of the new moon, a tradition that determines the commencement of Eid. This year, Ramadan is characterized by a ‘split’ initiation date, beginning either on March 1 or March 2 based on moon visibility. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, the moon was sighted on February 28, leading to a March 1 start. Meanwhile, in the UK, the moon only became visible on March 2, resulting in a later commencement of Ramadan.
Many in the UK will synchronize their Eid celebrations with either Saudi Arabia or Morocco, which may cause discrepancies in the Eid dates within the UK. Given the variance in Ramadan start dates, moon sighting will occur on either Saturday, March 29, or Sunday, March 30, depending on local observations, with Eid commencing the day after.
Despite UK astrology indicating that the moon will not be visible on Saturday night, suggesting Eid should be on Monday, March 31, Saudi Arabia has already set Sunday as the Eid date, likely due to their national calendar. The HM Nautical Almanac Office has provided a detailed list of moon visibility times for announcements this weekend.
In most parts of the world, including the UK and the Middle East, the moon sighting will not be possible until Sunday. For those in London wishing to observe the crescent moon, sunset is at 7:31 PM with moonset at 9:28 PM on Sunday, and on Monday, sunset is at 7:33 PM with moonset at 11:03 PM. A comprehensive schedule of moon visibility for various cities can be accessed through the HM Nautical Almanac Office.
Eid ul-Fitr for 2025 is approaching, with moon sighting critical for determining its date. While Saudi Arabia has confirmed Eid will begin on Sunday, UK astronomy indicates visibility issues suggest Monday as a more accurate date. Variances in Ramadan start dates have led to a discrepancy among celebrants, notably in the UK, making it essential for individuals to confirm local announcements and visibility timings based on their geographic locations. The coordinated effort to observe the crescent moon will guide many in their celebrations.
Original Source: www.mylondon.news
