Astronomers have warned the public against using telescopes or binoculars unsafely while attempting to sight the Ramadan moon, cautioning that improper viewing could seriously harm eyesight.
Experts explained that a solar eclipse will also occur on the same day, and at sunset the moon will appear extremely close to the sun.
This alignment increases the risk of intense solar rays reaching the eyes, whether directly or indirectly, during attempts to observe the crescent.
According to the International Astronomy Center, the angular separation between the sun and the moon at sunset in Riyadh will be roughly one degree. In practical terms, it would lie only about half a degree from the sun’s disc.
Astronomers warned that pointing optical devices toward the moon under such conditions could allow the sun, or its intense glare, to enter the field of view, posing a severe danger to vision.
The same concerns were echoed by the Dubai Astronomy Group. Its operations manager, Khadijah Al Hariri, noted that although the eclipse will occur earlier in the day, the moon will remain extremely close to the sun at sunset, making unsafe observation particularly hazardous.
Specialists further explained that even if observers wait until the sun has fully set, the lower edge of the moon would already have dipped below the horizon, making crescent visibility practically impossible.
Based on astronomical calculations, some countries have already indicated a likely start date for Ramadan around February 19. Experts have urged the public to observe the crescent or any eclipse phenomenon only through safe, approved methods and under professional guidance.