Astronomers in Kuwait said this year’s Ramadan holiday will begin July 9, when the first crescent moon of the month becomes visible.
Muslim tradition states Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, on the day after the slim crescent moon known as “hilal” is first seen in the night sky.
“Based on the calculations, the crescent marking the start of the month will be visible on Monday, making Tuesday the first day of the holy month,” astronomer Adel Al Saadoon said.
Modern astronomers have been playing a role in determining the start of Ramadan because the crescent moon can appear on different days, depending on where in the far-flung Muslim world the observations are being made, Gulf News said Sunday.
Observant Muslims are prohibited from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset.