emirates7 - Five AI-powered national observatories will take part in the crescent moon sighting as the UAE Fatwa Council convenes the Shawwal Crescent Sighting Committee meeting on March 29.
The meeting will be held at the historic Al-Hosn site in Abu Dhabi, chosen for its cultural and national importance, as well as its role in hosting official, national, and religious events throughout UAE history.
To aid in crescent observation, drones capable of ascending over 300 metres will be deployed from Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory. Equipped with high-precision lenses, these drones will be directed towards the moon’s position using precise astronomical calculations. This approach helps overcome visibility challenges and ensures an accurate sighting.
The observatories participating in the crescent sighting include:
Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory
Jabal Hafeet Observatory
Dubai Crescent Observatory
Sharjah Astronomical Observatory
Ras Al Khaimah Observatory
This marks the second time the UAE has employed drones for crescent sighting, having previously been the first country in the world to use this technology for observing the Ramadan crescent.
In addition to drones, observatories will leverage AI and smart technology to analyse images, process data, and determine both the crescent’s birth and its visibility potential.
Various astronomical centres and agencies across the country will collaborate to enhance the observation process and share expertise. The committee has also invited members of the community—especially Al Shawwafs (traditional crescent moon sighters)—to participate in the sighting after sunset and submit their testimonies through official channels.
The meeting will be chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, President of the UAE Fatwa Council, alongside Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Vice President of the Council, with participation from experts in Sharia, astronomy, and law.
The meeting will be held at the historic Al-Hosn site in Abu Dhabi, chosen for its cultural and national importance, as well as its role in hosting official, national, and religious events throughout UAE history.
To aid in crescent observation, drones capable of ascending over 300 metres will be deployed from Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory. Equipped with high-precision lenses, these drones will be directed towards the moon’s position using precise astronomical calculations. This approach helps overcome visibility challenges and ensures an accurate sighting.
The observatories participating in the crescent sighting include:
Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory
Jabal Hafeet Observatory
Dubai Crescent Observatory
Sharjah Astronomical Observatory
Ras Al Khaimah Observatory
This marks the second time the UAE has employed drones for crescent sighting, having previously been the first country in the world to use this technology for observing the Ramadan crescent.
In addition to drones, observatories will leverage AI and smart technology to analyse images, process data, and determine both the crescent’s birth and its visibility potential.
Various astronomical centres and agencies across the country will collaborate to enhance the observation process and share expertise. The committee has also invited members of the community—especially Al Shawwafs (traditional crescent moon sighters)—to participate in the sighting after sunset and submit their testimonies through official channels.
The meeting will be chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, President of the UAE Fatwa Council, alongside Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Vice President of the Council, with participation from experts in Sharia, astronomy, and law.