Crescent Moon Sighting In The UAE Confirms End Of Shaaban 1447 AH

The International Astronomy Center has confirmed an exciting sighting!

The crescent marking the end of Shaaban 1447 AH was photographed in Abu Dhabi by the Khatm Astronomical Observatory

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The photo was taken on Monday, February 16, at 8:15AM

The crescent was just forming for Shaaban, too tiny to see with the naked eye. Using advanced imaging, the observatory is helping refine moon-sighting techniques. This also improves the accuracy of the lunar calendar.

Why does this matter?

In the Islamic calendar, the first sighting of the new crescent moon officially starts a new month. Since Shaaban is ending, this crescent is the first sign that Ramadan is almost here. Ramadan is a month of fasting, reflection and family celebrations.

Most regions of the Arab and Islamic world won’t be able to see the crescent on Tuesday, February 17. The moon will set either before or just after the sun. That leaves no time for the crescent to appear, even with telescopes or advanced imaging.

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The crescent photographed in Abu Dhabi was captured using advanced astronomical imaging techniques. These methods allow astronomers to detect the moon hours before it becomes visible to the naked eye. Observatories like Khatm play a key role in helping communities around the world determine the correct start of Ramadan.

The timing of the crescent is critical

On some days, the moon is simply too close to the sun, making it impossible to see. That’s why even a tiny gap of a few minutes can make a difference. This scientific precision ensures that the lunar calendar remains accurate while respecting centuries-old moon-sighting traditions.

تقرير فلكي حول ظروف رؤية هلال شهر رمضان 1447 هـ

المهندس محمد شوكت عودة
مدير مركز الفلك الدولي

رابط الخبر على موقع المركز:https://t.co/2KLjynHncw

ستتحرى معظم الدول هلال شهر رمضان يوم الثلاثاء 17 فبراير/شباط 2026م، واستنادا على جميع معايير رؤية الهلال المنشورة في أبحاث علمية… pic.twitter.com/NL92KdHNu6

— مركز الفلك الدولي (@AstronomyCenter) February 1, 2026

This tiny sliver, captured in Abu Dhabi, is a sneak peek at the cosmic countdown to one of the most significant months of the year. Even if you’re not Muslim, it’s amazing to see science and tradition come together. All of it starts with the tiniest crescent in the sky.

Watch The Lovin Abu Dhabi Show: Abu Dhabi Confirms Moon Sighting Ahead of Ramadan

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