Nigeria is set to witness its first astronomical lunar crescent of the year on February 28, according to the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
The agency’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications, Dr Felix Ale, announced on Saturday that the lunar crescent is expected to occur at 1:45 a.m. West African Time, a moment termed the “Crescent Zero Hour.”
During this early phase, the crescent will only be visible under perfect atmospheric conditions using optical instruments such as binoculars or telescopes.
However, Ale noted that the lunar crescent would become visible to the naked eye later in the evening, between 6:17 p.m. and 7:35 p.m., across various locations in Nigeria.
“Maiduguri will be the first city to witness the young lunar crescent from 6:17 p.m. to 6:48 p.m., followed by Yola, Adamawa State, from 6:21 p.m. to 6:51 p.m.,” Ale said.
He outlined further timings, stating that Damaturu in Yobe would observe the crescent between 6:22 p.m. and 6:53 p.m., while Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Kaduna would experience it between 6:38 p.m. and 7:12 p.m.
In southern Nigeria, Enugu is expected to see the crescent between 6:42 p.m. and 7:32 p.m., with sunset and moonset occurring around 6:42 p.m. and 7:18 p.m. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja will witness the phenomenon between 6:44 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Lagos and Abeokuta will be the last cities to observe the lunar crescent, from 6:59 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Other cities across the country will experience the sighting at varying times within the predicted visibility window.
For optimal viewing, NASRDA advised observers to use optical aids if necessary and to select locations with clear atmospheric conditions and unobstructed views of the western horizon after sunset.
The agency highlighted the importance of this scientific forecast for those relying on lunar observations for religious, cultural, and scientific purposes. Researchers, scholars, and religious groups were encouraged to utilise the findings, with further data available on NASRDA’s official website.
