Suparco forecasts Sha'aban to begin on January 21

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) on Friday predicted that the Islamic month of Sha'aban is expected to begin on January 21.

The Suparco said that the new moon of Sha'aban is expected to be born on January 19, 2026, at 12:52am Pakistan Standard Time.

It said that by the evening of January 19, the age of the moon will be around 17 hours and 36 minutes.

Based on astronomical conditions, the agency said that there is a very low chance of sighting the new moon with the naked eye on the evening of January 19. As a result, the first day of Sha'aban is likely to fall on January 21, 2026.

It clarified that the final and official announcement regarding the beginning of the Islamic month will be made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan, which is the sole authorised body to decide on the basis of verified moon sighting reports from across the country.

It is worth noting that Muslims observe Shab-e-Barat every year on the night between the 14th and 15th of Sha'aban with devotion and reverence. The night is regarded as one of forgiveness and mercy, during which believers offer prayers, make special supplications and seek Almighty Allah’s forgiveness.