Astronomical Insights on Eid Al-Adha Timing
According to Abdul Hafeez Bani, an engineer and member of the Islamic Crescent Observation Project, Eid Al-Adha is expected to occur on May 27, 2026, in Morocco. This prediction is based on precise astronomical data regarding the visibility of the crescent moon in the Moroccan sky. Bani stated that the observation of the moon for the month of Dhul-Hijjah will take place on the evening of Sunday, May 17, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th of Dhul-Qi'dah.
He elaborated that the calculations indicate that at sunset on this date, the moon will be approximately 23 hours and 23 minutes old. Furthermore, the conjunction of the moon is expected to occur at 9:01 PM local time in Rabat. The moon is projected to remain visible in the sky for about one hour and 19 minutes after sunset, suggesting that it will be clearly visible on the horizon, making it easy to spot.
Bani added that the anticipated date for the first of Dhul-Hijjah is May 18, 2026, which aligns with the expected date for Eid Al-Adha (10th of Dhul-Hijjah) being Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Notably, this year may witness a rare occurrence where Eid Al-Adha is celebrated simultaneously in Morocco and other Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia and several nations in the Middle East. This alignment is due to the impossibility of sighting the moon in the Middle East on Saturday, May 16, forcing those countries to complete the month of Dhul-Qi'dah with 30 days.
As a result, there will be a consensus that Monday, May 18, is the first day of Dhul-Hijjah, unifying the religious observances in the region. Consequently, the Day of Arafah will fall on Tuesday, May 26, leading to Eid Al-Adha celebrations on Wednesday, May 27.
As reported by hespress.com.
