Nigeria is set to witness its first lunar crescent of the year on February 28, 2025, according to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
The NASRDA’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, who announced in a statement on Saturday, said that the lunar crescent is expected to appear at 1:45am West African Time (WAT).
“This moment, referred to as the Crescent Zero Hour, marks the earliest point at which the crescent may be visible under ideal atmospheric conditions using optical aids such as binoculars or telescopes.
“However, for unaided visibility, Nigerians will have to wait until Friday evening, February 28 when the crescent is expected to appear between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM across various locations in the country.”
According to the agency, Lunar Crescent Visibility Across Nigerian Cities – Maiduguri will be the first city to observe the crescent, between 6:17 PM and 6:48 PM- Yola (Adamawa State) is expected to follows next, with visibility from 6:21 PM to 6:51 PM, Damaturu (Yobe State) will witness it between 6:22 PM and 6:53 PM – Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Kaduna will see the crescent between 6:38 PM and 7:12 PM while Enugu will experience the event between 6:42 PM and 7:32 PM, with sunset and moonset occurring at approximately 6:42 PM and 7:18 PM.
The agency further noted that – Abuja (FCT)will observe the crescent between 6:44 PM and 7:15 PM, with sunset and moonset at 6:44 PM and 7:20 PM, Lagos and Abeokuta will be among the last cities to witness the crescent, between 6:59 PM and 7:30 PM.
It further noted that other cities across Nigeria will experience the lunar crescent at varying times within the visibility window of 6:17 PM to 7:35PM.
NASRDA stated that it advises use of binoculars or telescopes, if necessary.
The agency also advised ensuring observation under clear atmospheric conditions, selecting locations with an unobstructed view of the western horizon after sunset.
The sighting of the lunar crescent is a significant event in the lunar calendar and will be closely monitored by experts and astronomy enthusiasts across the country.
Sahara Reporters
