Art and Culture

Astronomers at the Al Khatm Astronomical Observatory, part of the International Astronomy Center, have successfully captured a rare daytime image of the crescent moon marking the بداية Dhul Qadah, the 11th month of the Islamic calendar.

The observation was made at 10am UAE time, when the crescent was just 16.5 hours old and positioned 11.7 degrees away from the Sun. Such sightings are considered technically challenging due to the difficulty of detecting the faint الهلال against the brightness of the daytime sky.

The observation team, led by Mohammed Awda, alongside Khalafan Al-Naimi, Osama Ghannam, and Anas Mohammed, used specialised equipment and favourable atmospheric conditions to achieve the capture.

Scientific Significance

Daytime crescent sightings are rare and require precise calculations, advanced optics, and clear skies. Successfully capturing the young moon in daylight demonstrates both the accuracy of astronomical predictions and the technological capabilities of the observatory.

Religious Importance of Dhul Qadah

Dhul Qadah is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which conflict is traditionally avoided. The month holds deep spiritual significance, serving as a transition period between the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and the pilgrimage season of Hajj.

Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, takes place annually in the holy city of Mecca, drawing millions of Muslims from around the world. This year, the pilgrimage is expected to fall between late May and late June 2026, subject to official moon sightings.

The successful observation of the Dhul Qadah crescent highlights the UAE’s growing role in astronomical research while reinforcing the connection between scientific advancement and religious observance.

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