SUPARCO expects Zil Hajj moon to be visible on May 17

SUPARCO on Tuesday issued preliminary astronomical projections indicating that the Zil Hajj 1447 Hijri moon is likely to be sighted on the evening of May 17.

A spokesperson for the agency said the age of the new moon at sunset on May 17 would be around 18 hours and 30 minutes, which is generally considered favourable for visibility in different parts of the country.

The official said the new moon is expected to be born at 1:01am on the same day, forming the basis for the expected start of the Islamic month.

According to the projections, atmospheric and astronomical conditions are likely to support crescent visibility, particularly in coastal areas where the gap between sunset and moonset is expected to remain around 60 minutes.

Based on these estimates, the first day of Zil Hajj is expected to fall on Monday, May 18, while Eid ul Adha is likely to be observed on May 27, subject to moon sighting confirmation.

The agency clarified that the final announcement regarding the beginning of Zil Hajj will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.