The National Space Research and Development Agency has announced that the first astronomical lunar crescent for February 2025 will be visible on Friday, February 28.
This prediction was made by NASRDA’s Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy following detailed astronomical calculations.
As stated by NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Felix Ale, the conjunction of the Moon, referred to as the crescent zero (0) hour, will take place around 1:45 AM (WAT) on February 28.
Ale stated that the crescent will first be seen under ideal atmospheric circumstances with the help of optical devices like binoculars or telescopes.
However, by the evening of the same day, the crescent will become visible to the naked eye across different parts of Nigeria between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM.
The agency’s report outlined the expected timing for the crescent’s appearance in various locations, Maiduguri, Borno State(First city to witness the crescent from 6:17 PM to 6:48 PM)
Yola, Adamawa State(Crescent visible from 6:21 PM to 6:51 PM),Damaturu, Yobe State(Visibility from 6:22 PM to 6:53 PM),
Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Kaduna(Crescent sighting expected between 6:38 PM and 7:12 PM)
Enugu(Visibility between 6:42 PM and 7:32 PM), Abuja, Federal Capital Territory(Crescent will be seen between 6:44 PM and 7:15 PM), Lagos and Abeokuta(The last cities to witness the crescent, between 6:59 PM and 7:30 PM).
The lunar crescent will be visible in other Nigerian cities during this period, with local sunset and moonset times.
In addition to ensuring clear atmospheric conditions and positioning themselves in areas with an unhindered view of the western horizon after sunset, NASRDA urged viewers to employ optical aids as needed.
The agency stressed that its scientific forecasts offer precise data on the date, time of emergence, sunset, and moonset for every state capital.
This information is especially beneficial for people and organizations that depend on lunar sightings for religious, cultural, and scientific reasons.
Researchers, scholars, and religious groups are encouraged to utilize the findings, with additional data available at www.nasrda.gov.ng.
NASRDA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing astronomical research in Nigeria and enhancing public understanding of celestial events.