Astronomers confirm the Shaaban crescent is not visible on January 18

Astronomers and astronomical authorities have confirmed that the crescent moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Shaʿbān will not be visible on the evening of Sunday, January 18, 2026, due to unfavorable astronomical conditions. The International Astronomy Center (IAC) and other expert bodies say that on January 18 — corresponding to the 29th day of Rajab 1447 AH in many countries — the moon will set before the sun, making it impossible to sight the Shaʿbān crescent anywhere in the Islamic world on that day with the naked eye, even using telescopes in most regions. As a result, Rajab will complete a full 30-day cycle in these countries, and Tuesday, January 20, is projected to be the first day of Shaʿbān 1447 AH according to astronomical calculations rather than local sightings.