ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has issued a prediction regarding the sighting of the new moon marking the beginning of Rabiul Sani 1448 Hijri.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon is expected to be born at 8:27am Pakistan Standard Time.
By sunset on September 12, 2026, the moon is expected to be approximately 34 hours and 33 minutes old. Along Pakistan’s coastal belt, the interval between sunset and moonset is expected to be around 39 minutes.
Based on these astronomical measurements, SUPARCO said the Rabi-us-Sani crescent could potentially be visible to the naked eye in coastal areas on the evening of September 12, provided weather conditions are clear.
In other parts of the country, the crescent is expected to be observable through telescopes, according to the astronomical assessment.
Based on the prediction, the first day of Rabi-us-Sani 1448 Hijri is likely to fall on Sunday, September 13, 2026, marking the end of Rabi-ul-Awwal.
However, the final decision regarding the sighting of the crescent and the beginning of the new Islamic month will rest with Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The committee is the authorised body responsible for announcing the beginning of Islamic months based on credible testimonies and verified observations received from across the country.
