The International Astronomical Centre has issued a new prediction regarding the sighting of the Shawwal moon for Eidul Fitr.
According to the centre, in countries where the first day of fasting was observed on Wednesday, 18 February, the moon is expected to be sighted on Wednesday, 18 March.
In countries that began fasting on Thursday, 19 February, moon sighting will take place on Thursday, 19 March.
For nations expecting to sight the moon on 18 March, the centre notes that moon visibility will be impossible because the moon will set before the sun, with the conjunction occurring after sunset.
Therefore, Eid is likely to be observed on 20 March in these countries.
The centre further stated that in extensive regions of the Islamic world, particularly in eastern and central areas, sighting the moon on 19 March will be extremely difficult. Consequently, Eidul Fitr in these regions is expected to fall on Saturday, 21 March.
