PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF THE NEW MOON

Mazlan Othman
University Kebangsaan Malaysia

I. Introduction

Much has been said about whether the new moon can and should be sighted. The country is divided into two schools of thought, not necessarily equally, on this matter. The first school of thought requires that although astronomical calculations may be used to determine the time and position of the new moon, the new moon must be sighted. If sighting fails then neither fasting nor Aidil Fitri can commence. The second school of thought also requires the sighting of the new moon but provides for the fact that should it not be seen, weather not permitting and astronomical calculations show that it should be in the right position to be sighted, then fasting and Aidil Fitri may commence as scheduled.

The religious arguments for and against both schools of thought are various and numerous. This paper is not intended to back up either one of them. It is rather intended to give the the reader a clearer view of some of the complicated physical aspects of the new moon, why it is in a certain position, why it often cannot be sighted and whether astronomical calculations are indeed correct.