SUPARCO Predicts Shaaban Moon Sighting on January 20, 2026
The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) recently released its astronomical predictions concerning the start of Shaaban 1447 AH. According to their detailed outlook, the crucial Shaaban moon sighting is highly probable on the evening of January 20, 2026. However, prospective visibility on January 19, 2026, is expected to be extremely challenging across the country, making an earlier sighting unlikely.
Astronomical Forecast: When to Expect the Shaaban Moon Sighting
SUPARCO’s comprehensive forecast indicates the new moon will officially be born precisely at 12:52 AM on January 19, 2026. Consequently, at sunset on that same day, the moon’s age will be approximately 17 hours and 36 minutes. Furthermore, observers in coastal regions will experience a notably brief window of about 33 minutes between sunset and moonset. Due to these specific atmospheric and lunar conditions, the likelihood of spotting the crescent moon with the naked eye on January 19 remains visibly low.
Conversely, based on their intricate astronomical calculations, SUPARCO suggests a significantly stronger chance of sighting the moon on Tuesday evening, January 20. This date conveniently aligns with the 30th of Rajab. If the crescent is not definitively confirmed on this primary date, the first day of Shaaban 1447 AH is then confidently anticipated to fall on January 21, 2026.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s Role
It is important to note that the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee holds the ultimate authority for the official announcement regarding Islamic months. This esteemed committee confirms the commencement of Islamic months only after meticulously assessing verified testimonies from various regions across Pakistan. Significantly, a crucial meeting of the central committee is scheduled for Monday evening, January 19, 2026, coinciding with concurrent sessions held by zonal and district committees nationwide. Therefore, while SUPARCO provides scientific guidance, the final declaration rests with the committee.
Modernizing Moon Sighting with Technology
In a forward-thinking initiative, SUPARCO also highlighted the Ministry of Science and Technology’s introduction of the innovative Ruet mobile application. This technological advancement aims to significantly improve and modernize the traditional moon sighting process. Consequently, this app offers a contemporary and efficient approach to this age-old practice, enhancing accuracy and accessibility for observers.
