Astronomical forecast suggests Rajab to begin on Dec 22

SUPARCO says moon age will exceed 35 hours by sunset on December 21

The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Saturday issued its forecast for the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of Rajab al-Murajjab 1447 AH.

SUPARCO said the new moon is expected to be born on December 20, 2025, at 6:43am Pakistan Standard Time (PST).

By sunset on December 21, 2025, the moon’s age is expected to be about 35 hours and 26 minutes. In coastal areas of the country, the gap between sunset and moonset is estimated to be around 63 minutes, the forecast said.

Based on astronomical calculations, SUPARCO said the moon is likely to be visible to the naked eye on the evening of December 21. As a result, the first day of Rajab al-Murajjab is expected to fall on December 22, subject to official confirmation.

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee retains the final authority to officially announce the beginning of the Islamic month, based on verified moon sighting testimonies from across Pakistan.