National Institute of Meteorology (INM) Announces Visibility of the Chaoual and Eid al‑Fitr Crescent in Tunisia
The National Institute of Meteorology (INM) has announced that the crescent marking the month of Chaoual and Eid al‑Fitr for the year 1447 AH could be visible in Tunisia on Thursday, 19 March 2026, after sunset. All the necessary conditions for observation are in place, the institute confirms.
Key Details
- Astronomical conjunction: The Sun and Moon will align on the same day at 14:23 local time.
- Visibility window: The crescent will remain visible on the western horizon of Tunisia for 39 to 43 minutes after sunset.
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First global observation: The earliest possible sighting worldwide is scheduled for the same day, starting at 16:26 Tunisian time, from:
- Western Russia
- Turkey
- Central Arabian Peninsula
- Ethiopia
The visibility zone is expected to expand gradually westward thereafter.
Context
- This conjunction occurs before the spring equinox, which is set for Friday, 20 March 2026.
- The Ministry of Religious Affairs remains the sole official authority responsible for announcing the start of lunar months and confirming the exact date of Eid al‑Fitr.
