The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has confirmed that Nigeria will witness its first lunar crescent of 2025 on February 28, marking a key astronomical event for the country.
In a statement released on Saturday, the agency’s Director of Media and Corporate Communications announced that the lunar crescent will first appear at 1:45 AM West African Time (WAT). This moment, known as the Crescent Zero Hour, represents the earliest point at which the moon may be visible under optimal atmospheric conditions using advanced optical aids like binoculars and telescopes.
However, for unaided visibility, Nigerians will have to wait until the evening of February 28, when the crescent is expected to be visible between 6:17 PM and 7:35 PM across various parts of the country.
According to NASRDA, the first city to observe the crescent will be Maiduguri, where it will appear between 6:17 PM and 6:48 PM. This will be followed by:
Yola (Adamawa State): 6:21 PM – 6:51 PM
Damaturu (Yobe State): 6:22 PM – 6:53 PM
Kano, Katsina, Jos, and Kaduna: 6:38 PM – 7:12 PM
Enugu: 6:42 PM – 7:32 PM (with sunset and moonset at approximately 6:42 PM and 7:18 PM)
Abuja (FCT): 6:44 PM – 7:15 PM (with sunset and moonset at 6:44 PM and 7:20 PM)
Lagos and Abeokuta: 6:59 PM – 7:30 PM
The agency added that other cities across Nigeria will experience the lunar crescent at different times within the visibility window of 6:17 PM to 7:35 PM.
Guidelines for Observing the Lunar Crescent
NASRDA has provided recommendations for those eager to witness the celestial event:
Use binoculars or telescopes for enhanced visibility, especially in areas with potential atmospheric disturbances.
Choose an observation point with an unobstructed view of the western horizon after sunset.
Ensure clear atmospheric conditions for the best experience.
Significance of the Lunar Crescent
The sighting of the lunar crescent is a crucial event in the lunar calendar, often influencing religious observances and scientific studies. The event will be closely monitored by astronomers, researchers, and enthusiasts across the country, as it marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle.
As Nigeria gears up for this astronomical spectacle, NASRDA continues to play a pivotal role in advancing space science and public awareness about celestial phenomena.
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