The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SPARCO) has forecast a likely sighting of the moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Zilhajj on May 17, suggesting that Eidul Adha could fall on May 27 in the country.
In a statement, Pakistan’s space agency said that the new moon of Zilhajj 1447 Hijri is expected to be born at 1:01 am Pakistan Standard Time on May 17, 2026.
The agency said the moon’s age at sunset on May 17 would be approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes, while the time difference between sunset and moonset in Pakistan’s coastal areas was expected to be around 60 minutes.
Based on these astronomical parameters, SPARCO said the chances of sighting the Zilhajj moon on the evening of May 17 were considered favourable, provided weather conditions remained clear and visibility near the horizon was good.
The agency said the first day of Zilhajj was expected to fall on Monday, May 18, marking the end of the Islamic month of Ziqad.
SPARCO added that Eidul Adha was likely to be observed on May 27.
However, the agency noted that the final decision regarding the sighting of the Zilhajj moon and the beginning of the new Islamic month would be made by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee based on credible testimonies and verified observations received from across the country.
