- Nigeria first lunar crescent 2025
- NASRDA announces lunar sighting
- Lunar crescent visibility in Nigeria
The National Space Research and Development Agency has announced that Nigeria will experience its first lunar crescent on February 28, 2025.
According to Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at NASRDA, the astronomical event is expected to occur at 1:45 AM West African Time. However, the crescent will be visible to the naked eye only in the evening of February 28 across different parts of the country.
Lunar Crescent Visibility Across Nigerian Cities
Maiduguri will be the first city to witness the crescent between 6:17 PM and 6:48 PM, followed by Yola at 6:21 PM to 6:51 PM. Other major cities include:
- Damaturu: 6:22 PM – 6:53 PM
- Kano, Kastina, Jos, Kaduna: 6:38 PM – 7:12 PM
- Enugu: 6:42 PM – 7:32 PM
- FCT Abuja: 6:44 PM – 7:15 PM
- Lagos and Abeokuta: 6:59 PM – 7:30 PM
Observers are advised to use binoculars or telescopes for better visibility, especially in areas with unclear atmospheric conditions.
Significance of the Lunar Crescent
Dr. Bonaventure Okere, Director of the Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy, emphasized that the lunar crescent marks the first phase of the moon. This event is significant for the Islamic calendar, as it helps determine religious activities such as Ramadan fasting.
NASRDA encourages researchers, scholars, and religious groups to utilize the findings for scientific and cultural purposes. Further details are available on the official NASRDA website at www.nasrda.gov.ng.
