Pakistan is likely to celebrate Eid ul Adha on May 27 after SUPARCO forecast strong chances of sighting the Zil Hajj moon on May 17.
The national space agency released preliminary astronomical projections on Tuesday regarding the start of Zil Hajj 1447 Hijri.
SUPARCO said atmospheric and astronomical conditions may support moon visibility in several parts of the country on the evening of May 17.
A spokesperson said, “The age of the new moon at the time of sunset on May 17 will be approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes.” The official added that astronomers generally consider such conditions suitable for crescent visibility.
SUPARCO also said the moon will likely be born at 1:01am on May 17. The spokesperson said coastal regions may offer clearer viewing conditions than inland areas.
“The gap between sunset and moonset in coastal areas is expected to remain around 60 minutes, which significantly improves the probability of the moon being visible,” the spokesperson added.
Based on these projections, Pakistan may begin Zil Hajj on Monday, May 18.
The country will likely celebrate Eid ul Adha on Wednesday, May 27. However, SUPARCO clarified that the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the final announcement.
Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to announce official decision
Pakistan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which depends on crescent sightings.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee usually meets before major Islamic occasions, including Ramadan and both Eids.
Religious scholars, meteorologists and SUPARCO officials attend these meetings.
They review eyewitness accounts and scientific data before announcing the official decision.
Pakistan has increased the use of astronomical forecasts during moon sighting discussions in recent years.
SUPARCO now regularly issues visibility projections before important Islamic months.
Saudi Arabia and several Gulf countries will also begin moon observations around the same time.
If Saudi authorities sight the crescent on May 17, the kingdom may celebrate Eid ul Adha on May 26.
Pakistan often marks the festival a day later because geographical conditions affect moon visibility.
Eid preparations gain momentum across Pakistan
Preparations for Eid ul Adha have already started in several cities.
Livestock markets have begun operating in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad ahead of the festival.
Local administrations are also preparing security, sanitation and traffic management plans.
Eid ul Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
Muslims around the world celebrate the occasion by offering animal sacrifices and sharing meat with relatives and the needy.
