ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has issued its astronomical forecast regarding the sighting of the Rabi-ul-Awwal 1448 AH moon, stating that the new moon is unlikely to be sighted in Pakistan on the evening of August 13, 2026.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon is expected to be born at 10:37pm on August 12. Based on astronomical calculations, the age of the moon is expected to be approximately 20 hours and 53 minutes at sunset on August 13.
SUPARCO said that in Pakistan’s coastal areas, the expected interval between sunset and moonset would be around 32 minutes. However, considering the relevant astronomical conditions, the crescent is not expected to be visible on the evening of August 13.
Based on these calculations, the first day of Rabi-ul-Awwal 1448 AH is likely to fall on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
However, the final decision regarding the sighting of the Rabi-ul-Awwal crescent and the beginning of the new Islamic month will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The committee is the competent authority to determine the commencement of Islamic months based on credible testimonies and verified moon-sighting observations received from across the country.
