Astronomers have said that the Shawwal crescent moon will be undetectable across the Arab and Islamic world on Saturday, March 29, due to the occurrence of a solar eclipse, reports Gulf News.
Saudi astronomer Bader Al Omaira explained that the crescent will set before the sun, and its conjunction will take place after sunset, making it impossible to spot, whether by the naked eye, telescopes, or any other means.
Since a sighting is necessary to mark the start of Shawwal in Saudi Arabia and other Arab and Islamic nations, it is expected that Ramadan will extend to 30 days, with Eid-ul-Fitr falling on Monday, March 31.
The International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi confirmed last week that the Shawwal crescent will be impossible to observe from the eastern part of the world and across the Arab and Islamic regions, using any observational tools.
Thus, if the Shawwal crescent is not visible on March 29, Ramadan will last for 30 days, and Eid-ul-Fitr will be on March 31. However, if the crescent is sighted, Eid will be celebrated on March 30.
Source: Gulf News
