BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- The Sirius Astronomy Association has released comprehensive astronomical data concerning the new moon of the month of Ramadan 1445, which signals the commencement of the sacred fasting month. The association underscores that only the Crescent Moon Committee of the Ministry of Religious Affairs is authorized to issue the fatwa determining the actual start date of Ramadan.
Invisible Crescent on Sunday, March 10; Probable Start of Fasting on Tuesday, April 12
On Sunday, March 10, 2024, Algeria observes the Night of Doubt, marking the 29th night of the month of Sha’ban. The new moon, signifying the onset of Ramadan, will occur at 10:00 AM Algerian time on the same day. Despite this, the lunar crescent’s age at sunset will render it invisible to the naked eye, according to established astronomical criteria. Even under optimal conditions, the crescent will not form, making it invisible. Consequently, a 30-day completion of Sha’ban is warranted, with Ramadan likely to commence on Tuesday, March 12, based on strict direct visual observation of the crescent.
It’s pertinent to note that the lunar crescent will be entirely imperceptible across the Arab world and the African continent on March 10, including through telescopic observation. Observation with the naked eye will only be feasible from a region west of North America, rendering observations elsewhere irrelevant.
Most Asian countries, including Indonesia, Iran, and Oman, have opted to begin Ramadan on Tuesday, March 12, considering these circumstances.
Alternative Scenario: Monday, March 11, as the First Day of Ramadan
However, if local observations on March 10 are validated by the National Crescent Committee, despite their astronomical inaccuracies, or if they rely on equally erroneous “visual observation” reports from Arab countries, Monday could be declared the first day of Ramadan 1445.
It’s crucial to mention that countries relying on strict calculations, such as Turkey, the Balkans, and select Muslim communities in Europe and the US, may begin Ramadan on Monday, March 11, based on potential observability in the western part of the Americas.
In Summary
For Algeria, adherence to strict visual observation suggests the commencement of the fasting month on Tuesday, March 12. However, if incorrect visual observations or endorsements of Machrek observations occur, March 11 could be announced as the first day of Ramadan in Algeria and the Arab world, albeit for inaccurate reasons.
The Sirius Astronomy Association extends warm wishes for a blessed Ramadan, and may the fasting and righteous deeds of all be accepted during this auspicious month.
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