Saudi authorities have declared that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after announcing the sighting of the crescent moon. This announcement, followed by several Gulf countries, marks the start of a period of daytime fasting, reflection, and community for millions of Muslims. Other states, such as Jordan and Turkey, expect the start on Thursday.
The technical debate on moon sighting ðŸ”
The traditional method of direct visual observation, used by Saudi Arabia, clashes with modern astronomical calculations. Several scientific academies, such as that of Sharjah (UAE), pointed out that the new moon would not be visible until Wednesday night, making its sighting on Tuesday astronomically impossible. This generates an annual discrepancy between the religious criterion based on visual testimonies and the precision of celestial mechanics.
The crescent moon that only some eyes see 😉
It seems the moon has a special pact with Saudi observers, appearing to them when it is still invisible to telescopes. This annual phenomenon consolidates a tradition where faith and science maintain a cordial pulse. While astronomers review their charts, the faithful already have a date for the first iftar. In the end, the calendar moves forward, even if the satellite keeps a different rhythm.