Is Eid tomorrow: Eid al-Fitr 2025 UK moon sighting times and when the date will be confirmed
As the conclusion of Ramadan draws near, Muslims throughout the UK and globally will be eagerly anticipating the sighting of the crescent moon, signaling the commencement of the next lunar month and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr. However, the date for Eid in 2025 could potentially spark controversy. Saudi Arabia’s pre-established Islamic calendar has earmarked the first day of Shawwal and Eid for Sunday, March 30. Contrarily, UK astronomers assert that the moon will not be visible in either Britain or the Middle East on the preceding night, Saturday, March 29, even with telescopic assistance. Consequently, they predict Eid to fall on Monday, March 31, reports MyLondon.
For those interested in attempting their own moon sighting, here’s what you can anticipate according to the UK’s Nautical Almanac Office, reports MyLondon.
Saturday, March 29
All times are applicable to London.
Sunset: 6.29 pm
Hours of darkness start: 6.59 pm
Moonrise: 5.39 pm
Moonset: 6.54 pm
On this day, the moon will be in its new phase. With an illuminated fraction of 0.4 per cent, it will be virtually impossible to sight, whether by naked eye or telescope.
Sunday, March 30
All times are for London.
Sunset: 7.31 pm
Hours of darkness start: 8.01 pm
Moonrise: 6.52 pm
Moonset: 9.28 pm
Remember to adjust for the clocks going forward. The moon will remain in its new phase on Sunday. The illuminated fraction will still be just 0.4 per cent, rendering it nearly undetectable, regardless of whether one is using the naked eye or a telescope. However, the UK’s official astronomers suggest that observing a crescent moon might be feasible.
Monday, March 31
All times are for London.
Sunset: 7.32 pm
Hours of darkness start: 8.02 pm
Moonrise: 7.09 pm
Moonset: 11.01 pm
On Sunday, the moon will be in its waxing crescent phase. With an illuminated fraction of just 3.5 per cent, it will be nearly impossible to spot, whether by naked eye or telescope. However, the UK’s official astronomers suggest that observing a crescent moon may once again be feasible.
With preparations underway for the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, the uncertainty surrounding the moon sighting in the UK has added an extra layer of anticipation for Muslims in the country. While Saudi Arabia has set a date for Eid, conflicting reports from UK astronomers hint at a potential delay in the UK celebrations.
The discrepancy between the pre-established Islamic calendar and the predicted visibility of the crescent moon has left many UK Muslims undecided on when exactly they will be marking the end of Ramadan. The importance of the moon sighting in determining the start of Shawwal and Eid ul-Fitr adds a traditional and spiritual element to the festivities, making it essential for many to witness the crescent themselves.
As the UK awaits the final confirmation of the Eid date, Muslims across the country are preparing for the end of Ramadan with both excitement and a sense of unity. The differences in moon sighting predictions highlight the diversity within the Muslim community, showcasing the various traditions and beliefs that enrich the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr each year.