Astronomers in the UAE have recorded a sharply defined daytime image of the lunar crescent that signals the start of Shaaban 1447 AH, taking advantage of improved atmospheric conditions that allowed for an uncommon level of detail.
The observation was made on Monday morning from Abu Dhabi at the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory, part of the International Astronomy Centre’s regional monitoring efforts. The image was captured at 11am UAE time on January 19, at a point when the Moon sat just 6.7 degrees away from the Sun, a position that usually makes visual detection challenging.
Researchers said the clearer skies played a decisive role in allowing the crescent to be photographed despite its faint brightness and close proximity to the Sun, factors that normally limit daytime visibility.
A specialised observation team carried out the imaging, applying advanced astronomical techniques to document the crescent. Those involved in the effort were Osama Ghannam, Anas Mohammed, Khalfan Al Nuaimi, and Mohammed Ouda.
Data collected from such observations feed into broader scientific work aimed at improving crescent sighting practices and increasing the precision of lunar calendar calculations used in Islamic astronomy.
The International Astronomy Centre continues to conduct similar observations across the region as part of its scientific programmes and public engagement initiatives focused on astronomical events and their cultural significance.
