Muslims across South Africa and neighboring countries are preparing for the annual sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, which will determine the beginning of the holy month of fasting. However, experts suggest that the chances of sighting the moon on Friday remain low.
The Islamic calendar follows a lunar system, meaning each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds immense spiritual significance, as it marks a period of fasting from dawn to dusk, increased worship and acts of charity.
Likelihood of sighting the moon in South Africa
According to astronomical calculations, the new moon occurred at 2:44 AM SAST on February 28, 2025. By sunset time in Cape Town on Friday, the moon will be approximately 16 hours old, with an illumination of around 0.3%, which is at the lower threshold for naked-eye visibility.
Experts note that while the crescent moon can sometimes be seen as early as 15 hours after the new moon, this is rare and requires perfect weather conditions and experienced observers. In Cape Town, the moon’s altitude will be around 53° with an angular separation of 61° from the sun, making visibility possible but unlikely.
Several factors influence the likelihood of sighting the crescent moon, including:
– Illumination percentage: A minimum of 0.3% to 1% is typically needed for visibility.
– Sky conditions: Clear skies with minimal light pollution increase the chances of sighting.
– Observer experience: Skilled moon sighters with optical aids may have a better chance.
– Moon’s altitude and separation from the sun: The crescent must be high enough above the horizon and far enough from the sun to be seen.
Islamic scholar Mufti Abdullah Dockrat, speaking in an interview with Salaamedia, stated: “It is unlikely that the moon will be visible tonight. There’s always a possibility, but it is very unlikely that the moon will be sighted this evening”.
He further explained that this low probability extends beyond South Africa, affecting neighbouring countries such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi.
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Global Ramadan announcements
Several countries have already declared that Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025, due to the absence of a confirmed moon sighting. These include the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei.
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos confirmed that the crescent moon was not sighted, while Brunei’s religious authorities also reported an unsuccessful search, leading to the decision to begin fasting on March 2.
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What happens if the Mmon is sighted?
If the crescent moon is spotted in South Africa after Maghrib prayer (sunset prayer) tonight, the first fast will be observed on Saturday, March 1, 2025. However, if no sighting is confirmed, then the first day of fasting will be observed on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has urged Muslims worldwide to attempt to sight the moon tonight and report any confirmed sightings to local religious authorities.
With the low probability of sighting the moon in South Africa and surrounding regions, it is likely that Ramadan will officially begin on Sunday. However, Muslims across the country will wait for the official announcement from local moon-sighting committees.
Picture: via Muslim Aid.
