Ziad Allawi to Al Jazeera Net: Astronomical Standards Are Important for Determining the Likelihood of Crescent Moon Visibility
Dr. Ziad Allawi emphasizes the importance of astronomical standards in determining the visibility of the crescent moon, which is crucial for marking the beginning of lunar months such as Ramadan and Eid.
In an interview with Al Jazeera Net, Dr. Ziad Allawi, a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, discusses the significance of astronomical parameters in determining the visibility of the crescent moon. He explains that the identification of lunar months, especially Ramadan, relies heavily on these scientific guidelines. The interview highlights Allawi's new 'Global Allawi Standard,' which aims to enhance the accuracy of crescent moon sightings.
Dr. Allawi notes that traditional methods relied on a single factor, which was the 'Arc of Crescent Visibility' (ARCV), the direct distance between the sun and the moon at the time of sighting. However, in recent decades, this has evolved to include several parameters such as the age of the moon and its duration above the horizon. This diversification of standards improves precision in predicting the visibility of a new crescent, which is vital for religious observances that follow the lunar calendar.
Moreover, the discussion sheds light on the intersection of science and belief, where many people view astronomy as the most reliable tool for determining the begins of lunar months. Dr. Allawi's insights contribute to an ongoing conversation about how scientific advancements can provide communities with clearer guidelines for these significant events, thereby enhancing their religious and cultural practices during important times of the year.