When will the moon of Muharram be sighted? Important prediction

ISLAMABAD: The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has issued an important prediction regarding the moon of Muharram in Pakistan.

According to Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti, the new moon will be seen on June 15, 2026 at 7:54 am Pakistan time. However, at sunset on the same day, the age of the moon will be less than 12 hours in all parts of the country, due to which its sighting will not be possible.

He explained that for the sighting of the crescent, the age of the moon is generally considered to be more than 18 hours. The interval between sunset and moonset on the evening of June 15 will also be limited, which has been recorded as 37 minutes in Karachi and 42 minutes in Peshawar, however, this difference will not be enough for sighting.

According to astronomers, due to the young age of the moon, even if the information is clear, it will not be possible to see the crescent on the evening of June 15, whether using the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope.

According to the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, after the completion of 30 days of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH, the 1st Muharram ul-Haram 1448 AH is expected to begin on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. However, the final and Sharia announcement will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

Astronomers say that this prediction is considered to be quite accurate based on the scientific principles of moon sighting, however, the authority to make a religious announcement lies with the relevant government committee.