The International Astronomy Center has announced new astronomical forecasts regarding the sighting of the Shawwal crescent for 2026, which determines the start of Eid Al Fitr in many Islamic countries.
According to the center, differences in the start of Ramadan this year may lead to variations in when countries attempt to sight the Shawwal crescent and consequently when they declare the first day of Eid.
Some countries began Ramadan on February 18, 2026, while others started fasting on February 19. This difference affects the date each group of countries will observe the crescent moon.
Countries that started Ramadan on February 18 are expected to observe the crescent on March 18, 2026.
However, the center said the moon cannot be seen that day because it will set before the sun and the lunar conjunction will occur after sunset.
As a result, these countries are likely to complete the 30 days of Ramadan, making March 20, 2026 the first day of Eid al-Fitr.
Meanwhile, countries that began Ramadan on February 19 will observe the crescent on March 19.
Astronomers say the moon will not be visible from the eastern parts of the world on that date.
However, it may be seen with telescopes in parts of West Asia and Central and North Africa, while sighting it with the naked eye could be extremely difficult in Western Europe and West Africa.
Visibility is expected to be easier in many areas of North America.
Based on these estimates, most countries are expected to declare March 20, 2026 as the first day of Eid Al Fitr.
However, if the crescent is not confirmed in some regions due to difficult viewing conditions, a number of countries may instead mark March 21, 2026 as the start of the holiday.
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