SUPARCO charts the skies for Shaban moon sighting in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has released its astronomical assessment regarding the sighting of the moon for the Islamic month of Shaban 1447 AH in Pakistan.

According to SUPARCO, the new moon of Shaban is expected to be born on January 19, 2026, at 12:52 AM. However, astronomical conditions suggest that the chances of sighting the moon with the naked eye on the same evening are extremely slim.

SUPARCO stated that at sunset on January 19, the moon’s age will be approximately 17 hours and 36 minutes, while the time gap between sunset and moonset in Pakistan’s coastal areas is expected to be around 33 minutes. Due to the short visibility window and the moon’s low altitude, the likelihood of a clear sighting on that evening remains low.

Based on these scientific indicators, SUPARCO has indicated that the beginning of Shaban is more likely to fall on January 20, 2026, rather than January 19.

However, the space agency noted that its forecast is purely based on astronomical calculations. The final and official decision regarding the start of Shaban will be taken by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan, which will announce the outcome after reviewing moon sighting testimonies received from across the country.

The announcement is awaited with interest, particularly as Shaban precedes the holy month of Ramadan, making moon sighting developments closely watched nationwide.