Hilal Observations for Ramadan

Hilal Observations for Ramadan is an outreach and dialogue initiative launched in 2017 to foster collaboration between astronomers and the Italian Islamic community. The project promotes the dissemination of modern astronomy while encouraging cultural exchange through science, education, and public engagement.

In 2020, the initiative led to a Memorandum of Understanding between INAF, the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics, and the Islamic Cultural Center of Italy, establishing a framework for joint activities aligned with the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda. The collaboration supports scientific understanding of lunar phenomena that are central to the Islamic calendar, while strengthening relationships between scientific institutions and religious communities.

A key component of the project is the observation of the waxing crescent Moon (hilal) used to determine the beginning and end of the month of Ramadan. Observation sessions are organised through a network of INAF observatories and amateur astronomy associations (in collaboration with Unione Astrofili Italiani) across Italy, often involving delegations of Imams and members of the Islamic community. These events allow participants to experience astronomical observations directly using telescopes and binoculars, while discussing the scientific principles behind lunar phases and lunar visibility.

Through this initiative, the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education Center Italy supports outreach and educational activities that connect astronomy with cultural dialogue. The project contributes to building a national network of astronomers and amateur astronomers collaborating with the Islamic community, promoting scientific literacy and public engagement with astronomy.