Astronomical Predictions for Eid al-Fitr in Morocco
According to astronomical calculations, Eid al-Fitr in Morocco is expected to be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026. This prediction is made based on the inability to sight the Shawwal crescent on the evening designated for its observation. The calculations indicate that the crescent moon will not be visible on Thursday, March 19, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramadan, meaning that the holy month will be completed in its entirety, lasting thirty days. Thus, Saturday will mark the beginning of Eid al-Fitr.
These estimations are grounded in the scientific analysis conducted by Moroccan timing researcher Ibrahim Akhyam, a member of the Islamic Crescent Observation Project. Akhyam provided insights to the news outlet Hespress, explaining that the difficulty in sighting the crescent is due to the absence of certain fundamental astronomical criteria that are essential for determining visibility, such as the age of the moon and its duration above the horizon. Some of these criteria have not reached the necessary minimum threshold for visibility.
Akhyam further clarified that the moment of astronomical conjunction will occur on Thursday, March 19, at 01:25 a.m. GMT. At this time, the sun will be positioned at the end of the Pisces constellation, having traversed 29 degrees of it, while the moon will have moved into the Aries constellation, covering approximately 8 degrees.
Despite these astronomical predictions, the official announcement regarding the date of Eid al-Fitr in Morocco remains the prerogative of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. This ministry relies on the traditional sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of the 29th of Ramadan.
As reported by ecopress.ma.
