ISLAMABAD – The Holy Month of Ramadan is around the corner, and there is a rare astronomical event expected to occur during this time. For the first time since 1992, the Islamic month of Ramadan and the Gregorian solar month of March are anticipated to start on the same day, March 1, 2025. With the precise date closely linked to the sighting of the moon, this extraordinary overlap between the Islamic lunar calendar and the Gregorian solar month is attracting significant attention.
This rare alignment happens only once every 33 years and is due to the synchronization of the orbits of the moon and sun. Experts suggest this alignment creates an unusual phenomenon—an event providing fascinating insights for both astronomy enthusiasts and those observing the holy month of Ramadan.
For Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is much more than just dates on a calendar. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed through fasting, prayer, and charity, culminating with Eid al-Fitr, the festival signaling its end. Though Ramadan doesn’t commence on the same day each year—due to the lunar nature of the Islamic calendar—2025’s timing highlights the unique circumstances of both calendars merging.
According to Islamic Relief, it is expected to start on March 1, but some communities may begin observing it as early as March 2, depending on local moonsighting practices. Hailing from different traditions, many groups rely on the Saudi moon sighting committee to determine the start of Ramadan. “Ramadan begins when the crescent moon lines up with the astronomical new moon,” noted experts.
One potential complication for observers this year is the possibility of confusion with Venus, the so-called Evening Star, which will be near its crescent phase on February 28, 2025, the night when moonsightings will be conducted. Dr. Raja Zahid Nawaz, who serves on the moonsighting board at Noor TV, cautioned, “We may have an imposter. If seen through optical aids like binoculars or telescopes, it might appear like the moon.” He recommends checking the crescent moon's position against the backdrop of Venus to confirm proper observation and avoid misidentification.
Historically, many moon announcements have been found to have inconsistencies. Since the late 1990s, the Saudi government formed committees aimed at improving the accuracy of moon sighting reports, but challenges remain. Dr. Nawaz explained, “There have been times where actual crescent moons were either misidentified or where false reports proliferated due to the visibility of other celestial objects.”
Reflecting a growing trend toward standardized practices, British Islamic scholars and moonsighting specialists convened for the 'Preparing for Ramadan' meeting to set guidelines for declaring the start of Ramadan 2025. They emphasized the need for observations rather than reliance solely on astronomical calculations. “The primary source is actual sighting, backed by calculations as a secondary source,” said Dr. Nawaz.
On the night of February 28, communities across the UK will look out for the crescent moon, collaborating to achieve agreement on the month’s beginning. The confluence of traditions and the contemporary approach are pivotal as Ramadan is celebrated across different sects and locations.
Of significance this year is also the upcoming observance of Eid al-Fitr. Based on the expected ending of Ramadan, the festival will likely begin early April, ushering joy and communal celebrations among Muslims worldwide.
Ramadan 2025 is set to be not just spiritually enriching but also marked by this rare astronomical historic moment. The alignment of the lunar and solar calendars stands as a reminder of the divine timing, inviting Muslims and observers of the heavens alike to reflect on the cosmos and their place within it.
With previous years highlighting discrepancies and confusion during moonsightings, the established guidelines and communal endeavors for 2025 showcase how Muslim communities are increasingly taking matters of tradition and religious observance to heart, reinforcing ties built on shared faith and practices.
Observing the crescent moon may be complex, but it becomes part of the Ramadan magic, enriching the experience for millions, who will soon join together to embrace the spirit of this holy month.