ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s space agency on Friday said the first day of Ramazan is likely to fall on Feb. 19, based on astronomical calculations.

In a statement, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) said the new moon of Ramazan 1447 AH is expected to be born on Feb. 17 at 5:01 pm Pakistan Standard Time.

According to SUPARCO's detailed calculations, at the time of sunset on Feb. 18, the age of the new moon will be approximately 25 hours and 48 minutes.

The time duration between sunset and moonset is expected to be 59 minutes along the coastal areas of the country.

"Based on astronomical parameters, the chances of sighting the new moon with the naked eye are very bright in the evening of Feb. 18, 2026," the SUPARCO statement read. "Consequently, the 1st of Ramazan may likely fall on Feb 19."

Earlier this week, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had issued a similar forecast, announcing that there is a "fair chance" of sighting the new moon of Ramazan on the evening of Feb. 18.

The agency emphasized that while astronomical calculations indicate favorable conditions for moon sighting, the final announcement will be made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, the country’s sole authorized body for moon sighting, after receiving and verifying moon-sighting testimonies from across the country.

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First day of Ramazan likely on Feb. 19: Pakistan space agency