As the year 2026 approaches, the interest of Moroccans begins in determining the start date of the blessed month of Ramadan for that year. Although the official announcement remains the prerogative of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, astronomical calculations indicate that Thursday, February 19, 2026, is the likely date for the first day of fasting in Morocco.
What astronomical observation indicates
The beginning of Ramadan is annually determined based on the sighting of the lunar crescent. In 2026, calculations indicate that the crescent will not be visible on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, making the announcement of the beginning of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, impossible.
According to the astronomer Hassan Al-Tleibi, a member of the Islamic Crescent Observation Project, the possibility of sighting will become clear on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, when the crescent will have completed its growth enough to be visible to the naked eye. Calculations suggest that the moon will be about 30 hours old and will remain visible for approximately 72 minutes, at an angle of up to 13 degrees above the horizon, making it observable in most Islamic countries, including Morocco.
Completing the month of Sha’ban
The reason lies in the lunar conjunction phenomenon, which will occur on Tuesday, February 17, at 12:02 PM. The short period between the conjunction and sunset prevents the crescent from being seen, as the moon will be too close to the sun and will not reflect enough light, even with the latest astronomical devices. Thus, the 28th of Sha’ban (February 17) cannot be considered the night before Ramadan, and it is likely that the month will begin on Thursday, February 19.
Sighting with the naked eye
Despite the accuracy of astronomical calculations, the traditional sighting of the crescent by the naked eye, under the supervision of the Ministry of Awqaf, remains the official reference for determining the start of Ramadan in Morocco. Every year, dozens of observers from various regions participate in the crescent sighting as is customary.
Nevertheless, all scientific data indicates that Thursday, February 19, 2026, will be the first day of Ramadan in Morocco.
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