MU PREPARES TO SIGHT THE CRESCENT OF RAMADAN

The Crescent Observation Unit at the Astronomical Observatory, MU in Hawtat Sudair, has completed its preparations to sight the crescent of Ramadan 1447 AH.

In accordance with the Umm Al-Qura calendar, the Observatory will conduct the official crescent sighting on Tuesday, 29 Sha’ban 1447 AH, corresponding to February 17, 2026.

Based on astronomical calculations conducted by the Observatory, the conjunction (new moon) will occur at 3:03 PM (Riyadh time). In Makkah, the sun will set at 6:20 PM, while the crescent will set at 6:23 PM.

At the Observatory’s location in Hawtat Sudair, the sun is expected to set at 5:52 PM (azimuth 257°), and the crescent will set at 5:54 PM (azimuth 256°). This means the crescent will remain visible for approximately two minutes after sunset, at an altitude of 0.5 degrees and an elongation of 1.61 degrees. 

MU contributes to upholding the tradition of crescent sighting in response to the Supreme Court’s call for Muslims to observe the crescent of Ramadan on this day.