The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has forecast a strong likelihood of Moharram moon sighting on the evening of June 26, paving the way for the first of Muharram to fall on June 27.

According to Suparco, the first month of the Islamic calendar is expected to begin on Thursday, June 27, with the birth of the crescent predicted for June 25 at 3.32pm.

On the evening of June 26, the moon’s age will be 28 hours and 15 minutes at sunset, and there will be a 75-minute gap between sunset and moonset, creating ideal conditions for moon visibility it said.

A Suparco spokesperson stated that “the moon sighting conditions on June 26 will be highly favourable,” increasing the chances of a clear sighting across various regions of the country.

The beginning of Moharram marks the start of the Islamic New Year and holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims around the world, particularly for the commemoration of Ashura.