Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has indicated that the Shawwal crescent is unlikely to be sighted on March 19, 2026, making Saturday, March 21, the expected date for Eid ul Fitr in Pakistan. The space research agency shared its astronomical assessment based on the expected birth of the new moon and its visibility conditions across the country. This forecast comes as part of SUPARCO’s routine scientific analysis, which aims to provide guidance on lunar visibility before the beginning of each Islamic month.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH is expected to be born on March 19 at 06:23 Pakistan Standard Time (PST). By sunset on the same day, the moon’s age will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes. In addition, the interval between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal areas is expected to be around 28 minutes. These astronomical parameters are crucial in determining whether the crescent can be observed with the naked eye or through telescopes. Based on the current calculations, the chances of sighting the crescent on the evening of March 19 remain limited, suggesting that the first day of Shawwal is likely to fall on March 21.
The scientific prediction issued by SUPARCO provides a probable estimate of Eid ul Fitr but does not serve as the final determination of the date. Traditionally, the official announcement of Islamic months and festivals in Pakistan is made through moon sighting procedures conducted across the country. These observations are reviewed and confirmed by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, the authoritative body responsible for announcing the start of each new Islamic month based on verified testimonies from different regions of Pakistan.
Once the committee receives reports from local moon sighting committees and observers nationwide, it announces the official start of Shawwal, which determines the final date for Eid celebrations. This process ensures that the religious observance of Eid ul Fitr aligns with traditional practices while also benefiting from modern astronomical calculations.
SUPARCO’s forecast is part of a broader effort to combine scientific knowledge with religious practices, providing guidance to communities on the likely dates of important Islamic events. Such scientific assessments are particularly helpful for planning purposes, allowing families, organizations, and government institutions to prepare for Eid celebrations in advance. However, final confirmation remains subject to the sighting of the crescent, which may vary depending on weather conditions and geographical location.
In summary, based on the current astronomical calculations by SUPARCO, the Shawwal crescent is unlikely to be visible on March 19, 2026. Therefore, Eid ul Fitr is expected to be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, marking the conclusion of the holy month of Ramzan. The official confirmation of the festival’s date will, however, come from the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after reviewing nationwide moon sighting reports. Observers and the public are advised to await the committee’s announcement before finalizing Eid celebrations
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
