The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has announced that Nigeria is expected to observe its first astronomical lunar crescent on February 28. Dr. Felix Ale, NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, made this announcement in a statement released on Saturday.
He stated that the lunar crescent would be visible at 1:45 AM West African Time, with perfect atmospheric conditions and optical instruments such as binoculars or telescopes. This time, known as the Crescent Zero Hour, marks when the crescent will first become observable.
The crescent will be visible to the naked eye across Nigeria between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM on the evening of February 28, 2025. Ale provided specific times for various locations:
- Maiduguri will be the first to witness the crescent from 6:17 PM to 6:48 PM.
- Yola, Adamawa State, will observe it from 6:21 PM to 6:51 PM.
- Damaturu, Yobe, will see it between 6:22 PM and 6:53 PM.
- Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Kaduna will experience the crescent from 6:38 PM to 7:12 PM.
- Enugu will observe it from 6:42 PM to 7:32 PM.
- In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the crescent will be visible between 6:44 PM and 7:15 PM.
- Lagos and Abeokuta will see it last, from 6:59 PM to 7:30 PM.
Ale emphasized that other cities across Nigeria will experience the lunar crescent within the general visibility window from 6:17 PM to 7:35 PM. For the clearest view, observers should use optical aids when necessary and ensure they are in locations with an unobstructed view of the western horizon after sunset.
The space agency also pointed out that the scientific report provides precise lunar predictions for different locations across the country, ensuring accuracy for those relying on lunar observations for religious, cultural, and scientific purposes. NASRDA encouraged researchers, scholars, and religious organizations to use this information and visit the official website at www.nasrda.gov.ng for further data.
Dr. Bonaventure Okere, Director of the Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy (CBSSA), explained that the new crescent marks the first stage of the moon. He noted its importance in Islamic tradition, where the appearance of the crescent determines religious practices such as the start of the Ramadan fast. He also highlighted that astronomers use the moon’s cycle to create lunar calendars and understand its phases.
NAN
