Determining 1 Ramadan 2026, BMKG Deploys Teams at 37 Hilal Observation Locations

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) will carry out new moon observations on 17–18 February 2026 as part of official support to the Ministry of Religion (Kemenag) in determining the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah/2026 AD. This observation is an important process before the isbat session which is scheduled for February 17 2026.

In an official statement conveyed via social media, BMKG emphasized that they would deploy a team of experts with the best optical equipment at 37 new moon observation points spread throughout Indonesia. Each location has been selected based on considerations of visibility of the new moon, weather conditions, and the suitability of observation instruments.

Acting Director of Technical Seismology, Potential Geophysics and Time Signs at BMKG, A. Fachri Rajab, explained that all observation results from the 37 points would be collected and sent to the Ministry of Religion for consideration in the isbat session. This field data will complement the calculation information that has been prepared previously.

He emphasized that the process of observing the new moon was carried out according to strict scientific standards. BMKG utilizes sophisticated optical instruments, recording devices, as well as competent human resource expertise in the fields of astronomy and hilal observations.

Each observation point will focus on the visibility parameters of the crescent moon, including height, elongation and atmospheric conditions at sunset.

BMKG Deputy for Geophysics, Nelly Florida, added that the hilal reckoning data has been compiled systematically and has become an important technical reference for observers throughout Indonesia. This calculation information allows each team to make observations with precision and according to astronomical standards.

With simultaneous observations in 37 locations, BMKG hopes to provide maximum scientific and technical support to ensure that the process of determining the start of Ramadan 1447 H is accurate, transparent and accountable.

It is also hoped that strong collaboration between BMKG and the Ministry of Religion will provide certainty for the Indonesian people in welcoming the holy month of Ramadan.

As a form of information disclosure, the public can watch the process of observing the new moon through live broadcasts or live streaming provided by BMKG via its official website.

This step is expected to further increase public literacy regarding the astronomical process that determines the start of fasting each year.***