Latest news with #PakistanSpace&UpperAtmosphereResearchCommission
Express Tribune
20-03-2025
- Climate
- Express Tribune
PMD predicts Shawwal moon sighting on March 30
Listen to article The moon of Shawwal 1446 AH is expected to be sighted on the evening of March 30, 2025, marking the beginning of Eidul Fitr, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). Astronomical calculations show that the new moon will be born at 15:58 PST on March 29, 2025, and there is a "good chance" of sighting the crescent the following evening, the PMD reported. However, weather conditions across various regions are expected to be partly cloudy, which may affect visibility in some areas. The Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has also predicted that Eidul Fitr will likely fall on March 31, 2025. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, along with zonal and district committees, will meet on March 30 to officially confirm the moon's sighting, which will determine the date of Eid celebrations nationwide. In anticipation of the holiday, the government has declared a three-day public holiday from March 31 to April 2, 2025, for Eidul Fitr, according to a notification from the Cabinet Secretariat.
Express Tribune
19-03-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Arab countries, Pakistan likely to observe Eid on same day
Arab countries, Pakistan likely to observe Eid on same day Listen to article The International Astronomy Centre confirmed on Wednesday that the crescent moon of Shawwal will be impossible to sight on Saturday, March 29, across all regions of the Arab and Islamic world. This is due to the moon setting before the sun, with the conjunction occurring after sunset. As a result, observing the crescent moon, whether by the naked eye, telescopes, or other means, will be unfeasible on March 29. For countries requiring an actual sighting to mark the start of Shawwal, Ramadan will likely extend to 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr falling on Monday, March 31. However, in some regions where the conjunction occurs before sunset, allowing the moon to set after sunset, some countries may choose to declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, following traditional moon-sighting practices. Notably, a partial solar eclipse will be visible at noon on Saturday in parts of the western Arab world, including Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This event serves as definitive proof that the crescent moon cannot be seen at that time. Given the scientific evidence, authorities have warned against false claims of sighting the crescent on that day, stressing that such reports would contradict established astronomical facts. Earlier, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) had forecasted that the Shawwal moon will be visible on March 30, suggesting that Eid ul-Fitr will likely fall on March 31, 2025. As a result, most of the Islamic world is expected to observe Eid on the same day, March 31.
Express Tribune
18-03-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Eidul Fitr likely to be observed on March 31 in Pakistan
Listen to article The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, along with zonal committees, will meet on Sunday evening, March 30, 2025 (Ramazan 29, 1446 A.H.), to sight the Shawwal moon, which will determine the end of Ramadan and the date for Eidul Fitr celebrations in Pakistan. The main meeting will be held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, where religious scholars, meteorological experts, and other stakeholders will review moon sighting reports from across the country. Last month, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) used scientific assessments, astronomical calculations, and modern observational data to forecast the visibility of the Ramadan and Shawwal crescents. According to astronomical models, the Shawwal moon is expected to be visible on March 30, indicating that Eidul Fitr will likely fall on March 31, 2025. However, the final decision will be made after the committee examines testimonies, as unaided-eye moon sighting remains a religious requirement in Pakistan.
Express Tribune
18-02-2025
- Science
- Express Tribune
Name Pakistan's first lunar rover and win Rs 100,000 cash
Listen to article Whether you prefer 'Sabz Qamar', 'Pak-Chaand', or 'Jinnah-Rover' to name Pakistan's first Lunar rover, the best name could let you win a cash prize, a certificate and nation-wide honor. In a press release, Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO),announced a nationwide contest to name country's first lunar rover. Pakistan's first-ever lunar rover is set to be launched as part of China's Chang'E 8 mission in 2028. To celebrate this achievement and engage the nation, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has announced a nationwide contest. The Moon has fascinated humanity for centuries, serving as a stepping stone for deeper space exploration. It holds valuable resources, such as water ice and rare minerals, which could support future space missions. A Lunar Rover plays a crucial role in exploring the Moon's surface, navigating harsh terrain, conducting scientific experiments, and transmitting critical data back to Earth. By studying the Moon, scientists can gain insights into Earth's history, planetary evolution, and the potential for sustaining life beyond our planet. Pakistan first mobile robot to Moon SUPARCO's rover, with an approximate weight of 35 kilograms, will join China's Chang'E 8 mission, which is part of the larger International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project. The rover is set to land on the lunar south pole, a region known for its challenging terrain and potential scientific discoveries. This mission aims to explore the Moon's surface, conduct scientific research, and test innovative technologies for future lunar and planetary exploration. The mission will involve a series of scientific experiments, including the study of lunar soil, mapping of the lunar surface, and the testing of new technologies for sustainable human presence on the Moon. SUPARCO's rover, equipped with state-of-the-art scientific instruments, will play a crucial role in collecting data that could pave the way for future lunar missions. This collaboration with China highlights the strong bilateral relations between the two countries and their shared vision for space exploration. Under the theme 'Name Pakistan's Lunar Rover,' the contest encourages public participation in the country's space journey. It is open to students, space enthusiasts, and the general public across Pakistan. Participants can submit a unique and meaningful name along with a brief explanation of their choice. The winner will receive national recognition. Pakistan's entry into lunar exploration is a significant milestone, and this contest allows every citizen to be a part of this historic journey. For more details, visit
