KUWAIT CITY, Feb 8: The Al-Ujairi Scientific Center announced that approved astronomical calculations indicate the conjunction of the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan will occur before sunset on February 17, with the moon setting after sunset in Kuwait.

According to the center, a map illustrating the moon’s visibility across various countries shows that the lower part of the lunar disk over Kuwait will set simultaneously with sunset at 5:38 p.m., while the entire disk will set at 5:39 p.m., with an elongation of about one degree.

Astronomical observations further suggest that in Mecca, the moon will set roughly three minutes after sunset, while visibility is expected to be limited in other Arab and Islamic countries.

The center explained that the new moon occurring before sunset and setting afterward fulfills the astronomical conditions for marking the beginning of the new Hijri month under its calculation criteria. However, it emphasized that the official announcement of Ramadan’s start remains the responsibility of the Sharia sighting committee and other competent authorities.

The Al-Ujairi Scientific Center also confirmed its participation in the crescent observation efforts on February 17, in response to an invitation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.